Florida A&M pauses all football activities in wake of unauthorized rap video

Florida A&M paused all football activities following a release of an unauthorized rap video shot inside the locker room, according to head coach Willie Simmons.

Rapper Real Boston Richey released the song “Send a Blitz” and Simmons announced the decision Friday night. It was just hours after the song’s release.

Simmons released a statement on social media announcing his decision while there’s an internal investigation.

“Earlier today, it was brought to my attention that a rap video was shot by a prominent rapper in the football locker room of Galimore-Powell Fieldhouse without proper authorization,” Simmons said in a statement.

“The video contained graphic language that is not consistent with Florida A&M’s core values, principles and beliefs and an internal investigation is underway to determine who authorized the use of not only the athletic facility at Galimore-Powell, but also licensed apparel that potentially violates university branding and licensing agreements.”

Simmons took over in 2018 and went 6-5 in his first season. Since then, Florida A&M won nine games each year, aside from 2020 where there was no season amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Although I am a proud proponent of free speech and support all forms of musical expressions, this football team (as ambassadors of Florida A&M University) has a responsibility to protect the University’s image,” Simmons said. “As a result of this unfortunate situation, as head football coach I am effectively suspending all football related activities until further notice.

“It is a privilege to wear the Orange and Green and as a football program, our young men have failed to live up to the standard set before us. They will all learn from this mishap and we will continue to work hard every day to become the best version of ourselves and continue to make Rattler Nation proud.”

The song contained explicit lyrics but the fact the song video was shot in the locker room without proper authorization led to Simmons’ decision. 

Simmons last led Florida A&M to the FCS Playoffs in 2021 but lost in the first round.