In a positional grouping that can ill afford it, Ole Miss has seen its depth along the offensive line take yet another hit.
Austin Golson, Rivals.com first reported Monday morning, has decided to leave the Rebels football program. While initially stating that the player “is going to look into his options. Nothing has been decided,” head coach Hugh Freeze subsequently confirmed that Golson is leaving the Rebels.
There appears to be some miscommunication between the two parties as Golson later told the Jackson Clarion-Ledger he hasn’t decided one way or the other.
“My family comes before football,” Golson said. “There hasn’t been a definite decision.”
Golson has two grandparents with health concerns, the coach said, and is looking at a transfer closer to his home in Prattville, Ala.
As a true freshman last season, Golson, a four-star 2013 recruit rated as the No. 9 tackle in the country, played in 12 games, mainly at the guard position. He was viewed as the likely starter at right tackle exiting spring.
Auburn and Alabama were considerations for Golson before signing with Ole Miss in February of last year.
With Golson’s departure, if it comes to fruition, the Rebels have now seen seven linemen, including three starters, from a year ago leave the program for various reasons.
(Photo credit: Ole Miss athletics)