Austin: 'I have let you all down'

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (AP) - North Carolina defensive tackle Marvin Austin has apologized for his "poor decisions'' that led to his dismissal from the team amid an ongoing NCAA investigation.

In a statement, Austin said Monday he regretted "my actions and the embarrassment I brought to the university and to the football program.'' That followed the school's announcement that Austin wouldn't play again for the Tar Heels for breaking rules on NCAA agent benefits, preferential treatment and ethical conduct.

Austin says he will pay "a severe price'' by missing his senior season and said he was sorry for letting down his teammates, coaches and fans.

Christopher Lyons, Austin's Miami-based attorney, released the statement and says it was "a very difficult day'' for his client.