Former Florida DL McDonald arrested for DUI

San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Ray McDonald was arrested Saturday night after California Highway Patrol authorities suspected he was driving under the influence, according to Comcast SportsNet.

McDonald, who was booked into San Mateo County Jail at 7:57 p.m. and was released just under two hours later, is scheduled to appear in court on July 22.

Further details are not currently available.

“The 49ers are aware of the recent matter involving Ray McDonald,” a team spokesman told CSN. “Ray informed the organization of the situation immediately Saturday evening. We take these issues very seriously, but will reserve further comment at this time as this is an on-going legal matter. The 49ers will continue to gather the facts and monitor the developments closely.”

UPDATE: Though his lawyer advised him not to discuss the specifics of his arrest, McDonald, 25, provided the following statement to the media on Tuesday.

“I just wanted to let you all know that whenever this works itself out, you’ll know everything that’s going on. And I just want to apologize for making this a distraction because that’s not my intent.

My intent is just to come out here and work hard and try to win ballgames this year. And I don’t want this to be a distraction for the fans, my family, my teammates. That’s pretty much it.”

McDonald, 25, is the second player associated with the Florida Gators to be arrested for DUI over the last few days, joining current redshirt sophomore wide receiver Frankie Hammond, Jr., who was also busted for possession of alcohol by a minor.

Photo Credit: Morgan Petrosk/Associated Press