Grier won’t join WVU at bowl as he prepares for NFL draft

West Virginia quarterback Will Grier is skipping the Mountaineers’ appearance in Orlando’s Camping World Bowl and will instead focus on preparing for the NFL draft.

Grief, a dynamic playmaker who sparked the Mountaineers’ attack, announced his decision in a statement released by WVU on Saturday, shaking up the forecast for the matchup between No. 16 West Virginia and No. 20 Syracuse.

WVU will likely turn to Miami transfer Jack Allison to lead the offense.

Grier started his career at Florida and opted to transfer when he was suspended for one year after violating the NCAA’s performanceenhancing drug policy.

After sitting out one year at West Virginia in observance of NCAA transfer rules, Grier went 516-of-785 passing for 7,354 yards and 71 touchdowns during two seasons leading the Mountaineers offense.

“Since arriving in Morgantown, Jeanne and I have been welcomed into the Mountaineer family, and we, along with Eloise, have been so blessed by the support and love of so many,” Grier said in a statement that included reference to his wife and their child.

“I hope that, in return, you know that I have given my all and worked hard each and every day to help our football program and university. While we did not win every time we took the field, and I shoulder that responsibility, I can assure you that we tried. After discussions with Jeanne and my family, and after receiving professional input, I have decided not to participate in our upcoming bowl game and focus on preparing myself and my family for what I hope is the next step in our journey.”

He went on to thank Mountaineers coach Dana Holgorsen, the rest of the coaching staff and his teammates

“It has been an honor to wear the WVU uniform, and I sincerely thank all of Mountaineer Nation for allowing my family and I to be a part of something so special,” Grier said.

Grier joins a long list of college players who have opted to skip bowl appearances, including WVU senior offensive tackle Yodny Cajuste.

“Will and I spoke at length about the bowl game, and I am fully supportive of his decision to begin preparing for the NFL draft,” Holgorsen said in a statement, according to ESPN. “While we will miss him in Orlando, Will’s commitment and service to WVU football over the last three years will be talked about for many years to come. He led us with class, hard work and a willingness to learn, and set a high standard for his teammates.” Grier