Virginia Tech announced on Tuesday that running back Marshawn Williams will move on from football after suffering another knee injury last season.
“On behalf of our coaches and our medical staff, it’s come as no surprise that Marshawn has remained upbeat and positive despite suffering another injury that led to this difficult decision,” said Virginia Tech Head Coach Justin Fuente in a statement. “Marshawn has fought a good fight for himself and the Hokies, and we’re glad that he’ll continue his education at Virginia Tech even though this latest injury will prevent him from continuing his football career.”
Williams enjoyed early success with Virginia Tech, but has been plagued with injuries since the beginning. Williams tore his left ACL in November 2014 vs. Duke and missed the rest of that season. Williams reinjured the same knee during rehab and missed the entirety of the 2015 season. He played in nine games in 2016 before suffering another knee injury against Notre Dame.
“I’d like to thank Coach (Frank) Beamer, Coach Fuente and their staffs for giving me the chance to live out my dream of playing college football at Virginia Tech,” Williams said in a statement. “I’m also very appreciative of all my teammates for the chance to compete with them, as well as our trainers, medical and strength staff for helping me through the many ups and downs of this journey. While I’m disappointed that I can no longer sweat with my teammates on the football field, I’ll be a Hokie for the rest of my life.”
Williams will remain at Virginia Tech and pursue his undergraduate degree. Virginia Tech will ask for a medical disqualification for Williams, allowing him to remain on scholarship at Virginia Tech without counting against the Hokies' scholarship numbers. Williams ran for 719 yards on 183 career carries, scoring six touchdowns.