In news that’s hardly unexpected, but mildly surprising nonetheless, Terrelle Pryor‘s playing career at Ohio State has come to an end.
In a tweet from the Cleveland Plain Dealer‘s Doug Lesmerises, the Buckeyes quarterback has decided to end his football career at the school. Lesmerises cited Pryor’s attorney Larry James as his source for the information.
Pryor and athletic director (for now) Gene Smith later confirmed the decision via statements.
“In the best interest of my teammates, I have decided to forego my senior year of football at the Ohio State University,” Pryor said.
“We understand Terrelle’s decision and wish him well in this next phase of his life,” Smith said. “We hope he returns to The Ohio State University one day to finish his degree.”
Pryor has come under fire of late for potential NCAA violations and is the subject of an NCAA investigation into multiple vehicles he has driven throughout his three years in Columbus. He had already been suspended for the first five games of the 2011 season following a separate investigation into impermissible benefits he had received from a Columbus tattoo parlor.
It’s unclear what his future holds, although seeking entry into the NFL’s July supplemental draft would seem to be one significant possibility. At this point in time, however, Pryor’s undecided on the draft part of the equation.
“He’ll take the next couple days to collect this thoughts,” James told the Plain Dealer. “Right now, when you reach closure, it’s very emotional.”
Interestingly, OSU interim head coach Luke Fickell’s statement on Pryor’s departure indicated that his now-former QB had already decided on a career in professional football.
“I was notified this evening that Terrelle has decided to pursue a professional career,” Fickell said. “I wish him the best in his pursuits.”
Pryor, who came to the school as the No. 1 recruit in the country in the Class of 2008, ends his stormy OSU career with a 31-4 mark as a starter, with a perfect 3-0 record against archrival Michigan, three Big Ten titles and two BcS bowl wins being his on-field legacy. He ended up finishing five wins short Art Schlichter‘s school record for most career win’s by a QB at the school.