Ohio State coach Urban Meyer confirmed to reporters today what had been rumored for a couple of weeks: sophomore linebacker David Perkins is leaving the program.
Meyer called it "a mutual decision." There's no word yet on where Perkins might transfer.
The South Bend, Ind., product appeared in nine games as a true freshman, recording six tackles. He spent time with the first team this spring as Ryan Shazier was banged up, though he was projected as a backup this season at outside linebacker behind Shazier and Joshua Perry. Perkins was rated as a four-star prospect by ESPN.com when he signed with Ohio State last year.
Losing Perkins thins a linebacker corps that already lacked depth, as Shazier is the lone returning starter. Meyer needs Perry and Grant to step up this year and give Shazier some help.
As for Perkins, we'll always have his hit on Brutus Buckeye to remember.
