LeGarrette Blount’s Second Chance

LeGarrette Blount lost his cool and made a huge mistake on September 3, 2009, following a University of Oregon upset loss to Boise State University. First, he punched an opponent on the way to the locker room. Second, he had to be restrained and – basically – carried into the locker room so he didn’t cause any more trouble for himself, the University of Oregon or the PAC-10. After initially being suspended for the entire season – including any post-season play – it looks like the University of Oregon, Athletic Director Mike Belotti and head coach Chip Kelly will reinstate Blount later in the season. Of course, his possible reinstatement following such a firm suspension is a huge development – and the right move.

Blount’s punch landed on Byran Hout’s chin and Hout landed on his knees, dazed. Then, what most television cameras didn’t get on tape, Blount attempted to get into the stands – a la Ron Artest – and assault somebody else. He lost it. He did something really stupid. He just finished playing an incredibly intense, loud, violent game and failed to restrain himself when a trash-talking opponent yelled at him while he was walking off the field. Again, he made a huge mistake and he was suspended for it.

Blount is 22 years old. He’s played football his whole life. Anyone who believes he has as much success waiting for him in the real-world job market as he does on the football field is being disingenuous. The guy can really play football. Had his season long suspension remained, he almost definitely would’ve gone undrafted in the National Football League. Now, with the opportunity to showcase his talents on the football field once again, there is more than a good chance he will hear his name called on the first day of the NFL draft (he has to produce, obviously) following the season. I cannot see a downside to reinstating him. If he doesn’t play well, he doesn’t play well. If he commits another indiscretion, well, I suppose that will spell the end to his career. My bet is on him acting like a model citizen. He is contrite. He learned his lesson.

Of course, some are already screaming foul, writing and speaking about Blount avoiding punishment because he has a scholarship from a hugely profitable college football program. Comparisons to Lawrence Philips are asinine. Did Blount drag a screaming women by her hair down a flight of stairs during his time at Oregon? No, he didn’t. Did he lose his cool and punch an opponent who taunted him in front of a massive television audience and act like an emotional young man? Yes, he did. And he deserves a chance to rectify his mistake on the football field.

Funny Video from Jimmy Kimmel Live

Tags: Chip Kelly, Dennis Dodd, Lawrence Philips, LeGarratte Blount, Mike Belotti, University of Oregon

Anton

Anton Northwood is a Seattle resident who spends much of his time working on the Eastside.

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