Adolphus Washington Apologizes for Solicitation Citation, Fiesta Bowl Status Not Decided
ByThe Columbus Police cited Adolphus Washington, a standout defensive lineman at Ohio State, for first-degree misdemeanor solicitation Wednesday night.
Ohio State Athletics Communications Spokesperson Jerry Emig confirmed to ABC 6 in Columbus, "disciplinary action will be handled internally." Ohio State head football coach Urban Meyer was traveling back to Columbus on Thursday and is expected to address the matter Friday, the next day the Buckeyes are scheduled to practice.
"Do not know at this point," Ohio State Vice President and Director of Athletics Gene Smith told Eleven Warriors. "Coach [Meyer] is on [the] road and will deal with when he gets home."
Ohio State is scheduled to play Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 1, but the citation may put Washington's status for the game in doubt. If he does play, it will likely be his last game in collegiate football.
"I want to sincerely apologize to my family, to coach Meyer and the coaching staff, to my teammates and my friends for my lack of judgment last night and for my actions that I truly regret," Washington said in a statement obtained by ESPN and multiple other news outlets. "I have wanted to be a high-character teammate, a contributor to the success of this program and, most importantly, someone my family can be proud of. I am extremely disappointed in myself, and I can honestly say I will learn from my mistake and I will accept the consequences that deservedly will come my way. And I hope that people will know that I am truly sorry and that I sincerely do apologize."
Washington was reportedly contemplating declaring for the NFL Draft this time last year, but returned for his senior season instead. His decision paid off, as he finished among the Buckeyes' team leaders in tackles and sacks. Projected as a potential first-round selection next spring, it is not clear how the citation affects his draft stock.