Demetrius Douglas announced Monday that he’s not playing football with the Gophers this fall, instead looking ahead to the next chapter in his life.
Douglas, a wide receiver who returns kicks and punts for Minnesota, issued a statement saying he had made up his mind about playing before the Big Ten reverses its original decision to postpone all fall sports because of COVID-19.
“The events of 2020 have given us all an opportunity to reflect and reground on our purpose and priorities,” Douglas wrote, saying he’ll graduate from the University of Minnesota in 3 1/2 years this December.
“I prayed deeply on the right next step for me and decided that I would begin the transition to the next phase of my life’s journey,” Douglas added. “While the circumstances and plans for the Big Ten season have recently changed, my priorities and plans for the future have not.”
don't know where i'm going, but i'm on my way! luv always 🤞🏽 pic.twitter.com/X68jZX8r64
— meech (@withoutmeech) October 5, 2020
The loss of Douglas creates another opportunity for someone to step up at wide receiver, kick returner and punt returner. Minnesota’s top receiver is Rashod Bateman, with Chris Autman-Bell the only other established wideout on the roster.
Seth Green, who has been primarily used as a short yardage tight end/fullback/wildcat quarterback, is listed as a wide receiver this season. Fellow redshirt senior Clay Geary will have an opportunity for more snaps, as will freshmen receivers Daniel Jackson and Emilien Douglas.
The Gophers open the eight-game Big Ten season Oct. 24 at home against Michigan.
