WASHTENAW COUNTY, Mich. (WLNS) — University of Michigan star defensive tackle Mazi Smith has been charged with carrying a concealed weapon.
The felony charge comes from an incident on Oct. 7 in Ann Arbor.
Details about the arrest are unclear at this time, but Smith was officially charged on Wednesday.
Smith has started every game for the Wolverines this season, including the games after the incident.
He has 43 tackles this season, with 2.5 tackles for loss.
After the games against Maryland, Penn State, Illinois, and Ohio State, Smith shared the defensive player of the week honors, according to the University of Michigan.
University of Michigan Athletic Director Warde Manuel and football head coach Jim Harbaugh released a statement about the charges Thursday.
Manuel acknowledged they’re aware of the charges and said Smith will continue to play.
“We are aware of the charge against Mazi from a traffic stop back in October,” Manuel said. “Mazi was honest, forthcoming and cooperative from the very beginning and is a tremendous young man. He is not and never has been considered a threat to the University or community.
Based on the information communicated to us, we will continue to allow the judicial process to play out. Mazi will continue to participate as a member of the team.”
Harbaugh echoed a similar tone, saying that Smith has earned their trust over the last four years.
“I have respect for our judicial process and with that respect brings confidence that a fair and just resolution is forthcoming,” Harbaugh said. “Mazi’s character and the trust that he has earned over the past four years will continue to be considered throughout the process.”
Attorney John A. Shea is representing Smith, according to court records.
Smith is from Grand Rapids and played high school football for East Kentwood.