Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Baker Mayfield was arrested in February on a number of charges, including public intoxication, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. Shortly thereafter, video was released that showed Mayfield being tackled by police while seemingly attempting to flee custody and, in general, it was a terrible look for both the Heisman Trophy finalist and the Oklahoma program as a whole.
However, the Sooners announced punishment for Mayfield on Thursday and it did not include a suspension. Per an official release, Mayfield is subject to 35 hours of community service in the very near future and, beyond that, his only additional sanctions from the university will include an alcohol-education course.
New Oklahoma head coach Lincoln Riley said the following:
"Baker has expressed regret for his actions and backed up his apology by being a model leader in our program. He has learned from his mistake and will continue to grow from it. The coaching staff and the team has every confidence in him going forward."
It should be noted that Mayfield's legal issues are not necessarily out of the woods, as this was only a university-issued punishment. In response, the quarterback issued this statement.
"As I stated earlier, I could not be more disappointed in my actions and the embarrassment they caused for my university and team. I am anxious to fulfill the responsibilities that have been set and am continuing to dedicate myself to the high standard that everyone rightfully expects from someone in my position."
Fans of non-Oklahoma programs will undoubtedly display outrage at the lack of suspension, especially given varying precedent across the country. For now, though, Mayfield faces only mild punishment from the school as the legal process continues.
