Penn State star linebacker Micah Parsons made it official today, posting a video to his Instagram account, stating that he will opt out of the 2020 football season and enter the 2021 NFL Draft.
The news hit the college football world hard the other day, especially those in Nittany Nation.
While it’s sad news for die-hard Penn State Football fans, you have to respect the decision that Micah Parsons is making. In the video, Parsons specifically stated that “the potential risk to the health and well-being of my son far outweighed my urge to play football this season”.
After mentioning his decision to opt out of the 2020 season and enter the 2021 NFL Draft, Parsons added that he “will be graduating early and receiving my degree in December”. He followed that by stating that he kept his word to Head Coach James Franklin, adding that “leaving Penn State with my degree in hand was my main goal when I stepped on campus”.
Titled “The Decision”, here is the official statement video from Parsons via his Instagram account:
Penn State Nittany Lions Gear
Parsons is by far the biggest name to opt out of the 2020 college football season.
It’s highly likely that many others will follow. There’s also a big possibility that the entire season could be a no-go. In general, consider the fact that Penn State also recently announced that Beaver Stadium will have no fans for the upcoming season.
Other schools such as UConn have decided to forego the football season. Major conferences such as the ACC and Big Ten have already announced conference-only adjusted schedules.
This certainly seems like a slow path to what is likely to be no college football.
At least, not this fall.
With the COVID-19 pandemic still very much in play, this should come as no surprise to anyone. Well, anyone that believes that this is a serious situation in our country (and our world).
I, like many of my fellow Penn State alums, wish Micah Parsons well. He has the chance to be a big-time superstar in the National Football League. I truly believe that he will make a positive impact both on and off the football field.
Finally, there’s no reason this should feel like a lost season, despite the fact that Penn State had National Championship aspirations. Whether there is football or not, we should instead focus on this as a learning experience for all of us.
Overcome adversity and take care of those around you – just like Micah Parsons is.
Focus on what is important.
Here’s to the day football comes back and we all have a chance to watch a game in person. Protect those you care about and as always, thank you for supporting The Wife Hates Sports!
Image/Video Credit and H/T: Micah Parsons Instagram | Account Video by Penn Live
Hey Deacon (Aero) > Similar situation here, I knew this was coming and know that in general people want the games to be played, including the kids. Some families have high risk members, others do not. So many variables. This is just crazy how it is unfolding right now… two power 5’s postponed already and a few others, too – but some still trying to figure it out.
Cheers to you – talk soon! – KP
Hey Kev ,
I am a firm believer that the health of the players,coaches, and fans should be the schools highest priority. I’ll miss college football this fall,but I”ll live and I pray everyone else does also. Cheers brother!