A little over a week ago, Utah defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley took to Twitter and posted his thoughts on the murder of George Floyd at the hands of police.
Scalley has since been suspended indefinitely from the football program after it was made known that he had used a racial slur in a text message from 2013.
Even a former player has come out and stated that he was called the n-word by Stalley:
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Scalley admitted to using a racial slur in a text message and said he “made a terrible mistake.” He added that immediately after he sent the message, he apologized to the individual and their family for language that was “offensive and hurtful to not only the African-American community, but to all.”
“I am also heartbroken over the potential breach of trust with my fellow coaches, and with the young men in our program, both past and present,” he said in a statement Friday. “I am truly sorry, and I own up to the hurtful effects of my choice.
“Through my actions and words going forward, I will demonstrate that my use of that slur in 2013 does not reflect or define who I am or what I stand for. My action is indefensible and I will use my voice and position to bring about meaningful and much-needed change.”
Utah Athletic Director Mark Harlan said Scalley accepted the suspension.
“Coach Scalley and I have spoken. He is very contrite and acknowledged that the text was sent and that it did include a derogatory and painful word,” Harlan said in a statement. “The use of any form of racist language is not only antithetical to our policies and our values, but it is an affront to all of us, especially our African-American community members.”
Head coach Kyle Whittingham added that he was “disappointed and shocked” to learn of the incident.
“I take very seriously the hurt, pain and anger felt by African-Americans, and the power of words to inflict or deepen that pain,” he added. “Although this incident is inconsistent with the character and conduct of the person I have known and worked closely with for more than two decades, Morgan’s use of racist language is a very serious matter and I am supportive of the suspension while a more thorough outside review is conducted.”
Scalley, who was an All-American safety for Utah’s Fiesta Bowl championship team, is entering his fifth season as defensive coordinator.
