Mississippi State starting safety Marcus Murphy said on social media that he will opt out the rest of this season, leaving the Bulldogs without their No. 4 tackler for the final four contests.
Murphy did not specify his reasons for opting out or his plans in Thursday's post on his verified Twitter account. The junior wrote that he appreciated the support he received at MSU.
After careful consideration of what is best for me and my family moving forward, I have decided to opt out of the 2020 football season. I appreciate the love and support I've received during my time at Mississippi State University......... #7
— Marcus Murphy (@_2ERA_) November 12, 2020
A message left with a Bulldogs football spokesman was not immediately answered.
Murphy had 34 tackles with 22 assists, a tackle for loss and pass breakup in six games this season. That included a season-best 10 stops in last week's 24-17 victory over Vanderbilt.
The Bulldogs' scheduled game against No. 20 Auburn on Saturday was postponed this week based on positive tests and close contacts that left the team below the required minimum of 53 scholarship student-athletes.