Iowa State RB DeVondrick Nealy leaves program
Iowa State’s projected 2015 starting running back is no longer with the program.
According to the Ames Tribune, DeVondrick Nealy, wide receiver Tad Ecby and walk-on receiver Chase Onken, have left the team, head coach Paul Rhoads confirmed Wednesday.
“We are a blue collar football program that has no excuses and no explanations,” Rhoads said. “There have been a number of dismissals and departures from our program for failing to meet these high standards and expectations. Most recently Tad Ecby, DeVondrick Nealy and Chase Onken.”
Rhoads said that Nealy and Ecby left the program “voluntarily” two or three weeks ago.
Nealy, who will be a senior, started three games for the Cyclones last season and ran for 271 yards and one score. He also emerged as a reliable target out of the backfield with 18 catches for 187 yards and a touchdown.
In his first two seasons, Nealy combined for 239 yards and two touchdowns on 57 carries along with 10 catches for 112 yards and a score.
He also had this memorable leaping touchdown against Oklahoma State in 2013.
With Nealy out of the picture, sophomores Tyler Brown (24 carries, 109 yards) and Martinez Syria (20 carries, 47 yards) likely have the best shot at the starting role. Redshirt freshman Mike Warren, along with incoming freshmen Josh Thomas and Sheldon Croney will also compete for playing time.
Ecby was also entering his senior season with the Cyclones in 2015. He caught 22 passes for 233 yards in 2013, but dropped off in 2014 with only eight catches for 236 yards and three scores.
Iowa State went 2-10 in 2014.
For more Iowa State news, visit CycloneReport.com.
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