Redshirt freshman running back Dominique Wallace announced yesterday he is leaving the Virginia football program, citing "academic interests." He said he will not transfer to another school to play football and instead plans to finish his undergraduate degree at the University.
Wallace's departure comes as a relatively quick change of events for the widely heralded recruit. Coming out of high school, he was listed as the top fullback in the country by Rivals.com.
A source close to the team who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue said Wallace's decision to leave is a significant development. Although Wallace's future with the Cavaliers largely depended on how he would mesh with the new coaching staff, the source said the team expected the running back to make a difference in the backfield despite the injury.
"Nobody can say for sure, but people expected him to be - him or Perry [Jones] - to take over as the main running back," the source said. "But it all depends because he sat out spring practice."
Wallace suffered a season-ending foot injury last season during Virginia's 37-34 week three loss against Southern Mississippi. The ensuing surgery sidelined Wallace during the spring. As a result, he fell behind his competition in the backfield, as sophomore Perry Jones, seniors Keith Payne and Raynard Horne adapted to offensive coordinator Bill Lazor's new system. Wallace participated in fall training camp but did not catch up on time lost during the spring, the source said.
"We've had a long conversation," coach Mike London said. "He likes us. He likes the staff. He likes the players on the team. He just felt that he wanted to go in another direction."
Wallace rushed for 49 yards on 14 carries last season and played on special teams during each of Virginia's two games this season.
-compiled by Andrew Seidman
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