OSU star lineman cited for solicitation

COLUMBUS — Ohio State defensive tackle Adolphus Washington’s college career could be over after the senior star was cited for solicitation during a sting by Columbus police late Wednesday night.

A team spokesman confirmed that Washington was charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. He will appear in Franklin County Municipal Court on Thursday.

An incident report was not immediately available.

Ohio State coach Urban Meyer was on the road recruiting on Thursday. The spokesman said, “Disciplinary action will be handled once coach is back in town.”

The Buckeyes play Notre Dame on New Year’s Day in the Fiesta Bowl.

“I want to sincerely apologize to my family, to coach Meyer and the coaching staff, to my teammates and my friends for my lack of judgment last night, and for my actions that I truly regret,” Washington said in a statement. “I have wanted to be a high-character teammate, a contributor to the success of this program, and – most importantly – someone my family can be proud of.

“I am extremely disappointed in myself, and I can honestly say I will learn from my mistake, and I will accept the consequences that deservedly will come my way.”

Washington, a second-team All-Big Ten selection and a second-team All-America pick by CBS Sports, enjoyed a breakthrough final season. The 6-foot-4, 290-pound Cincinnati native started all 12 games with 49 tackles and four sacks.