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Ole Miss DL Robert Nkemdiche suspended for Sugar Bowl

Graham Watson

Ole Miss All-American defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche will not be with the Rebels for the Sugar Bowl on New Year’s Day and will ultimately declare for the NFL draft.

"Last week, our Athletics Director and I informed Robert that he will not be joining us for the bowl game," coach Hugh Freeze said in a statement. "In addition, Robert has decided to declare for the NFL Draft, and we will continue to support him as he prepares for the next chapter in his life. I look forward to sharing with NFL general managers and scouts what a unique and talented individual he is. Robert has made an immeasurable impact on our program, and we are forever indebted to him. He and his family will always be part of the Ole Miss family."

Nkemdiche's status had been up in the air since he fell 15 feet over a hotel wall after going through a window a week ago. He suffered cuts and bruises from the fall and police said it found marijuana in the hotel room connected with him.

On Monday, Freeze was non-committal about whether Nkemdiche would play; Nkemdiche issued a statement apologizing and wanting to rejoin the team. Nkemdiche has not participated in bowl practices and Freeze has not updated Nkemdiche’s status.

"While I wish I could have finished this journey with my team, I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this program, and I am ready to begin the next phase of my life," Nkemdiche said in a rleased statement. "I have learned a valuable lesson in the last week, and I look forward to showing NFL personnel that this is not representative of my true character. I want to thank my coaches, my teammates and Rebel Nation for their support these past three years, and I look forward to making them proud for years to come."

Nkemdiche played in 11 games this season, tallying 29 tackles, seven for loss, three sacks, seven quarterback hurries and two pass breakups. Prior to the incident, Nkemdiche was considered one of the top picks in the upcoming NFL draft.

For more Ole Miss news, visit RebelGrove.com.

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Graham Watson is the editor of Dr. Saturday on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email her at dr.saturday@ymail.com or follow her on Twitter!

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