NEW ORLEANS - Former New Orleans Saints football player Darren Sharper has pleaded guilty to federal charges stemming from allegations he drugged and assaulted women in four states.

Sharper, wearing an orange jumpsuit while his hands and feet were shackled, pleaded guilty to three counts related to distributing drugs with intent to commit rape.

Under the plea agreement outlined Friday in a New Orleans courthouse, Sharper would serve nine years in prison.

The judge now has to decide whether to accept the plea agreement. The next hearing in the case is set for Aug. 20.

Sharper has already pleaded guilty or no contest to charges in Nevada, Arizona and California to similar charges.

Sharper was part of the New Orleans Saints' 2010 Super Bowl victory.