MORGANTOWN — WVU running back Leddie Brown announced Thursday he will not participate in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl against Minnesota on Dec. 28, and will instead get ready for the NFL draft.
“First, I would like to thank the state of West Virginia for being the most loyal college fan base, always showing out, and supporting me throughout my entire collegiate career. The fans have made my time here at WVU a memorable experience,” Brown tweeted.
“I would like to thank my teammates. Thank you to (WVU head coach) Neal Brown and (running backs coach) Coach (Chad) Scott for your devotion to helping me on and off the football field. Helping me develop as a leader and a man, as well as master my craft to allow me to take my talents on to the next level.
“Thank you to Coach Mike (Joseph) and the entire strength and staff for pushing me to my greatest athletic ability. After much thought and careful consideration with my family, I have decided to opt out of the Guaranteed Rate Bowl to focus on preparing for my life long dream. Thank you Mountaineer Nation for your unwavering passion and support.”
Brown finished his career sixth all-time in career rushing yards at WVU, with 2,888, and also scored 27 touchdowns. He posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons as a junior and senior in 2020 and 2021.
In his place, Tony Mathis and Justin Johnson will likely get the bulk of the carries in the bowl game. True freshman Jaylen Anderson, who enrolled late in fall camp, could also get carries. This trio, along with Clemson transfer Lyn-J Dixon, is a glimpse of what the backfield could look for the Mountaineers next season.
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