Division II HBCU program Albany State head coach Quinn Gray has since issued an apology. Extending a scholarship offer to four-star quarterback recruit Marcus Stokes,
Stokes was originally committed to the University of Florida, until a video of him singing lyrics containing the N-word went viral. At that point, the Gators — and most other FBS programs — rescinded his scholarship offer.
With Stokes still looking for somewhere to play college football, Quinn and Albany State reached out to him. On 24 January, Stokes Tweeted that he received an offer from the Golden Rams,
Less than a week later, Quinn issued a lengthy apology via the school’s website, Quinn said their decision to recruit Stokes was “unacceptable”. Quinn also revealed that he had a conversation with University President Marion Ross Fedrick about the matter.
“Let me start with a humble apology,” Quinn wrote. “Apologies for not respecting the tradition and history of ASU and for letting many of you down. I did not uphold the Ramlee standard, which I know you expect. Please know that speaking with a student My decision did not meet your expectations. Was unacceptable. I only wanted the best for my team, athletes and institution when I invited the student to come to ASU.
“As I tell my players, ‘Every action has a consequence.’ The consequences of my actions pained our university. I was trying to help a student get back into competition, and in my haste, I didn’t consider how the decision would affect all of you. Frankly, It was not my place to use ASU as a platform for redemption in this matter. I’m sorry I used flawed judgment. If given the opportunity, I would do better.
“ASU expects excellence. The President has made it clear that my actions do not meet that standard. It was never my intention to undermine what ASU stands for nor the rich history of this institution. I remain fully committed to the university’s mission of supporting academic excellence and student success.”
Stokes is a four-star recruit and the No. 25 quarterback in the 2023 signing class. According to 247 Sports Ranking, Since his scholarship offer was rescinded by Florida, Stokes has also received scholarship offers from Alabama A&M and West Florida.
