By Fitzgerald Cecilio

State College, PA

Quarterback-turned-tight end Paul Jones has left Penn State for personal reasons, becoming the 14th player to do so since the NCAA slapped severe sanctions against the university in connection with the Jerry Sandusky child abuse scandal.

"He will no longer be on the Penn State football team," coach Bill O'Brien announced, adding that said Jones' decision is not connected with the NCAA sanctions.

Jones leaves Penn State with one career catch for seven yards and one run for minus-7 yards.

Before Jones, nine players have transferred while four have remained as Penn State students.

"It was a shock that I heard he wasn't going to be around anymore," quarterback Matt McGloin said. "Whether he decides to come back or leave, I wish him the best of luck."

In August, Jones admitted to ESPN.com that he contemplated on transferring to Pittsburgh for about 11 days after the sanctions but ultimately decided to stick with the school as the backup quarterback.

"I wouldn't turn my back on these guys because I know they wouldn't turn their back on me," he said during the interview.

Jones, however, expressed frustration when true freshman Steven Bench overtook him on the depth chart and was moved to tight end.

O'Brien tried to downplay any division between Jones and the coaching staff, saying the player felt good about the move.

"He's a team player," O'Brien said. "He loves the team. He loves Penn State."

Jones will not be eligible to play for another team this season because he already participated in a Nittany Lions game. However, he could transfer and play for another team next year due to sanctions imposed by NCAA.

 

 

Penn State Tight End Paul Jones Leaves Football Program