Walk-on Luke Del Rio, who was redshirted during the 2013 season, has officially left the Alabama football program.
Using Twitter as his platform to break the news, Del Rio, while not making his future plans clear, expressed sincere thanks for the opportunity he was given at Alabama while also praising the fans of the Crimson Tide program.
I had an incredible year at Bama, it's sad to say that it will be my last, I'm excited for the next chapter of my life and what it will bring
— Luke Del Rio (@Ldelrio12) January 15, 2014
But I will always admit that Bama has the BEST fans in the nation, so much love and support through thick and thin #RollTide4Life
— Luke Del Rio (@Ldelrio12) January 15, 2014
To many, Del Rio's departure will rightfully come as a shock. Considered by many fans and "inside experts" to be the early favorite to replace AJ McCarron, Del Rio's decision to leave is arguably as significant as the recent arrival of new offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin.While the truth behind Del Rio's decision is obviously his personal business and does not have to be shared in a public forum, the human nature aspect, for Tide fans, is to begin the speculation game.
Prior to arriving at Alabama, Del Rio gave his verbal commitment to Oklahoma State. However, once offensive coordinator Todd Monken left the program to become the head coach at Southern Mississippi, Del Rio decommitted and reopened his recruitment. Upon review, Del Rio decided to accept a walk-on role at Alabama.
Could the removal of Doug Nussmeier and the introduction of Lane Kiffin have played a role in Del Rio's recent decision? Once again, while Del Rio's decision is personal and requires no explanation, the speculation on whether or not the OC change was the deciding factor is certainly a warranted discussion.
As for the future of the 'Bama program, if the 2014 quarterback questions weren't "heavy" before, they certainly are now.
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