By Matt Argillander
margillander@statenews.com
MSU football head coach Mark Dantonio announced July 27 via a press release that junior running back Delton Williams, who violated university ordinance 18.01 by possessing a weapon on campus last March, will rejoin the football team in mid-August.
Williams was suspended indefinitely from all team-related activities back in March, but when MSU begins preseason football practice on Aug. 8, Williams will be allowed to rejoin the team on Aug. 14, according to the release.
“Delton Williams has satisfied the university’s (student conduct system), court’s and football program’s expectations,” Dantonio said in the release. “Delton comprehends the severity of the situation and understands that decisions have consequences. He also appreciates the fact that wearing the Michigan State uniform is a privilege and not his right.”
“Provided with various options, he chose to return to Michigan State under specific guidelines in order to complete his education and playing career. Delton looks forward to turning the page to the next chapter in his life by rejoining his teammates and classmates.”
In the release, Williams apologized to everyone for making both himself and the university look bad and he also thanked Dantonio for a second chance.
“First, I want to apologize to the entire Spartan family. Obviously, I didn’t want this to happen and cast a negative light on the university and our football program like it has for the last four months,” Williams said in the release. “I appreciate the university and Coach Dantonio for providing me with the opportunity to return and finish what I started. Being a student-athlete at Michigan State is truly an opportunity of a lifetime. It was a judgment call, but they all decided to provide me with a second chance. I’m truly blessed and grateful for this opportunity.”
“I wasn’t looking for a fresh start or the easy way out by transferring to another school. It has been, and continues to be, a blessing to be a student-athlete here. God has a plan for us all, and I put myself in a tough situation. I dug myself a hole, took the punishment and now it’s time to get back on track.”
Williams also spoke of dreams to play in the NFL one day in the release, but he stated the NFL is not the primary goal.
“My return isn’t just about playing football because I know it isn’t forever,” Williams said. “God willing, I might get the opportunity to play in the NFL, but I already have 64 credits and I’m on pace to graduate. As some say, NFL means ‘not for long.’ My degree is my primary plan, not my back-up plan.”
“I never intended to put anyone in harm’s way, and I never believed the situation would get out of hand. I’ve learned from my mistake, and I won’t put myself in that type of situation again. I see things much differently now and know that I must think before I act. As a result of my decision, manhood has been thrust upon me. I’ve grown up a lot over the last four months. That decision could have ruined all of my dreams. This situation has certainly brought me closer to God.”
The release ended with a quote from Williams stating he can’t wait to get back on the field with his teammates and that he is “blessed” to be a Spartan.
