Pitarresi: Williams, Chestnut look for redemption

 

One of my favorite books is Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”

 

Why? It is one of the great tales of redemption. That miserly old son of a dog Ebenezer Scrooge finally sees the light and becomes a real human being.

 

I love redemption.

 

I’m hoping that Mike Williams and Nick Chestnut are redeemed. They already seem well on the road.

 

I saw Williams and Chestnut after SU’s first spring football practice today. Williams, a super talent, and, I’m betting, a future NFL wide receiver, was bounced out of school last June because of “an academic issue.” What that issue was is open to question, but it sure wasn’t anything he wants to brag about. Whatever. Chestnut, a starting cornerback, flunked out of school after the 2007 season.

 

Both are back, both are capable of making major contributions to the Orange, and both seem genuinely humble and grateful for another chance. Both said they’ve matured, and they really do seem much wiser and much more at ease.

 

I’m looking for big things from both players, and I’m happy for them. If they are as grown up as they appear to be, they’ll add a lot to the team.