Knott admitted to Michigan State 

BY JEMELE HILL
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

EAST LANSING -- Eric Knott, who served jail time this summer for sexual misconduct, was admitted Friday to Michigan State and will begin practicing with the football team today.

Knott, a former standout tight end at Detroit Henry Ford, pleaded guilty in June to fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct -- a misdemeanor -- and served 30 days in jail. His offense involved a 13-year-old girl. The case dragged out nearly two years after it was reported to police.

Knott made an oral commitment to MSU early last year, but the Spartans didn't sign him while he faced charges. He recently began working out in drills organized by MSU players in East Lansing, and he underwent a physical exam Friday.

Freshmen begin formal workouts today.

"I apologize for my past actions and the negative publicity brought upon the plaintiff's family, my family and Michigan State University," Knott said in a statement. "I appreciate the opportunity I have been granted by Michigan State to pursue my education and football career. I'm looking forward to beginning a new chapter in my life, and I'm focused on getting the job done in the classroom and on the football field."

Knott's offense is considered a two-year misdemeanor, and the court will continue to supervise his case for a year.

It appears Knott has a chance to receive ample playing time this season. John Lewandowski, assistant athletic director for media relations, confirmed that Knott will not be redshirted.

The Spartans have seven tight ends on the roster; the starter will be senior Chris Baker. The other tight ends are inexperienced.

"I'm excited about Eric Knott joining our football program," coach Bobby Williams said, also in a statement. "The last 19 months have been extremely difficult for him and his family. Eric has accepted responsibility for his actions and paid his debt to society."

Knott, considered perhaps the best high school tight end in the country as a senior, originally was charged with first-degree criminal sexual conduct. A plea agreement was reached in May that would have kept him out of jail, but Wayne County prosecutor Michael Duggan asked Circuit Court Judge Deborah Thomas to void the agreement. Duggan said the bargain was struck without his permission and violated his office policies.

MSU quarterback Damon Dowdell, a former teammate of Knott at Henry Ford, pleaded no contest last year to misdemeanor assault and battery in the same case. He joined the Spartans last season but didn't play.

MSU officials said Knott, who hasn't played football since 1999, would retain all four years of his eligibility.

"He's been through a thorough admissions review," university spokesman Terry Denbow said. "It's time for him to get a fresh start."

Denbow said the process Knott underwent to gain admission was available to any student with a "special circumstance." Knott met with MSU's vice president of student affairs and other MSU officials before he was admitted.

Knott initially will live off campus, Denbow said.

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