EUGENE, Ore. (AP) -Oregon running back LeGarrette Blount could be reinstated from his suspension for punching a Boise State player in the aftermath of the season opener.
First-year coach Chip Kelly planned to speak to the media following Friday’s practice “to discuss elements of his plan that has been in place with senior running back LeGarrette Blount that could include Blount’s potential reinstatement prior to the conclusion of the 2009 season,” the school said in a statement.
Further details were not immediately available on the story first reported by ESPN.
Blount punched defensive end Byron Hout, dropping him to his knees, following the Ducks’ 19-8 loss to the Broncos on national television.
Kelly suspended Blount for the rest of the season the next day. Because he is a senior, the suspension effectively ended his college career.
to practice with the team. Kelly said he set criteria for Blount to follow as part of his continued involvement with the team.
On Thursday, the university newspaper published a letter of apology from Blount. In it, he offered his “sincerest apologies and heartfelt regrets.”
“On a personal note, I probably will never be able to erase the memories of the post-game events of that day. Given this, I do not expect to be given a second chance to be a positive and responsible member of the football program and of this community,” Blount said in the letter to the editor. “Going forward, what I hope for is the opportunity to show that I am able to earn a second chance as a University student. And if I am so fortunate, I believe that I also will demonstrate that I am a better man and a better human being for having lived through this unfortunate experience.”
It was Blount’s first public comment since an apology to reporters immediately following the Boise State game.
Blount and Kelly called Boise State coach Chris Petersen and Hout soon after the suspension to apologize.
There has been support for Blount among some of Oregon’s fans. Students at last weekend’s 42-3 upset of California at Autzen Stadium were seen wearing “Free Blount” T-Shirts.
ESPN reported that Blount’s reinstatement, if it happens, will not be made until Oregon’s bye week on Oct. 17 at the earliest.
2, 240-pound transfer from East Mississippi Community College, rushed for 1,002 yards and a school-record 17 touchdowns last season.
Oregon has won three straight games since the loss to the Broncos. The No. 16 Ducks host Washington State on Saturday.
Add A Comment