Over the weekend, Notre Dame made the kind of news that a college football program never wants to be in the headlines for. Six players were arrested in two separate incidents that involved, among other things, marijuana possession, possession of gun without a license and battery on a law enforcement officer. Cornerback Devin Butler was arrested for the later with starting safety Max Redfield, wide receiver Kevin Stepherson Jr., running back Dexter Williams, cornerback Ashton White and linebacker Te’Von Coney involved in the former incident.
On Sunday, ND coach Brian Kelly–two weeks before the Irish visit Texas for their opener– reacted swiftly, dismissing Redfield, the biggest name of those in trouble, and putting Butler on indefinite suspension.
“During the past 24 hours, I have met with each of the members of our team involved in the two incidents that occurred over the weekend, reviewed the evidence available to me, and consulted with others involved in the leadership of our team and the University,” Kelly said in a statement. “That process has only served to deepen my disappointment in the poor decisions made by these young men. Their conduct fell far short of what we expect from those who represent our football team and this great university.
“On the basis of my review, I have decided to dismiss Max Redfield from our football team and place Devin Butler on indefinite suspension. The other individuals, while not being separated from the team, will be subject to disciplinary measures internal to the football program. In making this announcement it is important to stress that all of the players involved in these two incidents remain subject to justice system and University discipline, and those processes could yet impact their standing with the University and the team. At Notre Dame, where we place so much importance on the integration of students who are athletes into the broader university, the primary responsibility for discipline lies, as it should, with the University’s Office of Community Standards.
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