Former Gophers wide receiver Desmond Gant said today that he's planning to stay at the university to continue his education and compete in track.
Gant left the football program last week after dealing with concussion issues this season as a redshirt freshman. He played in eight games, mostly on special teams and recorded no statistics.
At 6-3, 214 pounds with terrific speed and leaping ability, Gant was one of the Gophers' more intriguing recruits coming out of East Aurora (Ill.) High School in 2014.
Gant said he suffered one concussion before coming to Minnesota and two more with the Gophers. The last one came against Michigan on Oct. 31, and he was out for the rest of the season.
"I didn't love the game of football," Gant said, though he hasn't completely closed the door on someday returning to the sport. "I always loved track more."
Gant said he had planned to pursue track in college before the Gophers swooped in with a football scholarship offer.
He was an All-State selection in the 200-meter dash in Illinois and plans to run that event for the Gophers. He said he needs to lose some of his football weight and get himself back into track shape. He looks forward to keeping up with his friends on the football team.
"While I was on the football team, they treated me first class," Gant said. "The coaching staff treated me very well. I wish them the best of luck, but I've got to do what's best for me."
