The judge overseeing former New England Patriots star Aaron Hernandez's murder trial said jurors can watch this weekend's Super Bowl but must be vigilant for any mention of him.

Bristol County Superior Court Judge Susan Garsh gave jurors instructions today before dismissing them for the weekend. The Patriots are taking on the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.

Hernandez caught quarterback Tom Brady's last Super Bowl touchdown pass in the Patriots' 2012 loss to the New York Giants.

Ms Garsh said if jurors watch the game, they must take precautions to avoid being exposed to information about Hernandez.

Hernandez is charged in the 2013 shooting death of semi-professional football player Odin Lloyd. Opening statements in the trial began yesterday.

Hernandez had a $40 million contract with the Patriots when he was arrested.

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