Florida A&M football resumes team activities after suspension, investigation into video coming

Florida A&M football resumes team activities after suspension, investigation into video coming

It was announced Monday all Florida A&M football activities have been re-instated for the program after coach Willie Simmons announced over the weekend they were suspended.

Florida A&M athletic director Tiffani-Dawn Sykes took to social media to announce the program has been cleared to resume all activities, starting Tuesday.

“An investigation into the unauthorized video that was partially filmed in the football locker room is being led by the University’s Office of Compliance and Ethics,” Sykes stated. “Since this is an ongoing investigation, no further comment can be shared at this time.

“In my role, I have been transparent with stakeholders and this time will be no different. I will make myself available for comment at the conclusion of the investigation.

Simmons told The Associated Press on Saturday that the team facility, weight room and access to the stadium field were off-limits to all players until he and the administration could sort out who was involved. He also said there were plans to meet with players who were visible in the video over the weekend and a team meeting is scheduled for Monday.

The rapper in the video is Tallahassee native Real Boston Richey. Richey, whose real name is Jalen Foster, performed at Florida A&M’s homecoming game last season.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.

Over the weekend, head coach Willie Simmons announced the entire program was being suspended after a rap video surfaced that was shot in the A&M locker room. According to Simmons, that video was shot in A&M’s locker room without prior approval.