Oregon tight end Colt Lyerla has withdrawn from school, the Ducks announced on Sunday.
The action comes after Lyerla was suspended for the Ducks’ win Saturday at Colorado. The junior said his departure wasn’t related to that and was completely his decision.
“I love everyone at Oregon; everyone’s on good terms, I believe,” Lyerla said. “Just for my own benefit, it was time to move on.”
Lyerla will not transfer to another school, but will instead pursue an NFL career.
“We wish Colt nothing but the best in the future, and will support him in any way we can,” said Oregon coach Mark Helfrich.
The 6-foot-5, 250-pounder junior finished his UO career with 34 receptions for 565 yards and 11 touchdowns. He has the physical tools to thrive in the NFL and is a likely first-round pick, so long as pro teams don’t downgrade him for his attitude and the way this move might reflect on him.
As for Oregon, it has more than enough weapons to survive the loss of Lyerla, who had just two catches on the year. The Ducks are loaded to the hilt with talent at tight end and are already getting good production out of freshman Johnny Mundt.
In other words, the show will go on for Oregon.