NCAA allows Arnett to play in 2012

Michigan State wide receiver DeAnthony Arnett will be allowed to suit up for the Spartans for the 2012 football season.

The NCAA made a special exception today in Arnett’s case, ruling he would not have to sit out a season after transferring from Tennessee to be closer to his father, who is battling a kidney disorder. 

"Coach D's call put a big smile on my face," said Arnett, while recalling the phone call he received from head coach Mark Dantonio informing him of the NCAA's decision.  "From the beginning, my father told me not to worry and to put the waiver request in the good Lord's hands."

Dantonio shared the following quotes Thursday afternoon:

“We received exciting news from the NCAA late this morning, stating that DeAnthony Arnett’s waiver request has been granted, so he’ll be eligible to participate this season. The NCAA's decision isn't just beneficial to him as an individual but to his entire family as well, knowing that they'll have an opportunity to see him compete this season.

“DeAnthony appreciates Michigan State’s complete team effort, led by (Athletics Director) Mark Hollis and (Faculty Athletics Representative) Mike Kasavana, in presenting his case. Our compliance staff, in particular Jen Smith and Holly Baumgartner, did an outstanding job of compiling all of his father’s medical records and presenting the facts to the NCAA. Our director of football operations Tim Allen also worked closely with the compliance staff throughout this process.

"DeAnthony is thrilled with the NCAA’s decision, and he's looking forward to getting back to work in preparation for the upcoming season. He’s an outstanding young person, and we’re delighted that he’s been afforded the opportunity to further his education and athletic career here at Michigan State.”

Arnett, who filed a waiver with the NCAA to play in 2012, is expected to make an immediate impact on a team that lost a trio of successful wide receivers in BJ Cunningham, Keshawn Martin and Keith Nichol. 

The former Saginaw High School star played last season with the University of Tennessee, but his father’s health deteriorated throughout the season, making it impossible for him to go to games and visit his son.   Currently, Arnett’s father is awaiting a kidney transplant. 

Originally, Tennessee said they would not allow Arnett to transfer to a Big Ten school in Michigan, but soon relented.