I agree that many football players, including former UW tight ends in the past(Stevens) have gotten off much lighter because of their status.
In regards to employment, a DUI on record can prevent you from getting a job, but unless driving has a practical application in your profession it is a rarity that you are actually punished. I know many idiots(Three of my closest friends, among others, have had DUI's). that have been arrested for a DUI, only one, who was a valet, was punished at his job.
I accept that this is something Sark felt he had to do and I believe that its a good way to send a message to the rest of the team by punishing perhaps the best player on the team. I wonder, if this were say, Kendall Taylor(I get that name right?) or some other non-starter if the penalty would have been the same.