Michigan St. RB Delton Williams set to rejoin team next month

Michigan State running back Delton Williams will re-join the football team next month and be added to the squad as a non-scholarship player in the fall.

Michigan State running back Delton Williams will re-join the football team next month and be added to the squad as a non-scholarship player in the fall, the school announced.

Williams was suspended in March after being charged with brandishing a firearm in public in an incident on the Michigan State campus.

Williams violated the school’s policy on carrying weapons on school grounds. He pleaded guilty to a reduced weapons charge in April and will be sentenced in December. The junior from Erie, Pa. faced up to 90 days in jail and a $100 fine on the original misdemeanor charge.

According to the Michigan State University police department, Williams was driving when he cut in front of another driver at a stoplight. Williams “displayed a weapon,” for which he has a concealed weapons permit, at the other driver but did not point it at the driver.

As a result of the plea deal, Williams forfeited his Smith and Wesson .40-caliber pistol and will not seek a concealed weapons permit in any state.

The school said Williams is set to rejoin the team on Aug. 14. The Spartans start fall practice on Aug. 8.

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“Delton Williams has satisfied the University’s (student conduct system), court’s and football program’s expectations,” Michigan State head coach Mark Dantonio said. “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.”

Williams apologized for his actions and said he never meant to put anyone in harm’s way.

“I appreciate the University and Coach Dantonio for providing me with the opportunity to return and finish what I started,” Williams said. “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.”

Williams had 54 carries for 316 yards and five touchdowns as a sophomore last season and is expected to compete for the starting running back position during the fall.

- Scooby Axson