Michigan State running back Delton Williams set to rejoin program on Aug. 14

Questions over whether or not running back Delton Williams will continue playing for Michigan State after his March arrest for brandishing a firearm on campus came to a close Monday as the junior will rejoin the team on Aug. 14.

According to press release sent by the university, Williams will have less than three weeks before he'll be allowed to strap on the shoulder pads.

"Delton Williams has satisfied the University’s (student conduct system), court’s and football program’s expectations," 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.

"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."

Williams also issued a statement expressing his sincere regret for the incident that led to a reduced weapons charge on April. 29 after pleading guilty. He's scheduled to be back a week after the start of preseason camp, which begins on Aug. 7.

Williams has also accepted a non-scholarship student-athlete roll this fall, according to MSU associate athletic director John Lewandowski.

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

"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 battle for the starting running back role has now increased to four possibilities, as Williams, who was third on the depth chart last season behind Jeremy Langford and Nick Hill, will compete with incoming freshman LJ Scott, redshirt freshman Madre London and sophomore Gerald Holmes.