Terps' Adams given release, intends to transfer

After a tumultuous sophomore season in which he found himself on the bench more than the field, Terrapins football running back D.J. Adams announced yesterday he has been granted a release from his scholarship and will seek to transfer.

The burly back, who ran for 11 touchdowns in 2010, never was able to work himself into the Terps' rotation this season under first-year coach Randy Edsall after an opening-game suspension. He finished with 174 rushing yards on 40 carries, significant drop-offs from his standout freshman season.

"With much anticipation and excitement, I announce my release from the University of Maryland football team," Adams wrote in a letter to The Diamondback. "The 2011 Maryland Football season proved to be extremely challenging and disappointing for me and my fellow teammates. After prayerful consideration, I believe it is best for me to continue my education and collegiate football career elsewhere."

In his first game back from a suspension for a violation of team rules, Adams scored two touchdowns against West Virginia, but he failed to establish a regular role on the team.

Adams had just one carry during a stretch of five midseason games before receiving a boost in playing time late in the Terps' eventual 2-10 campaign.

His consistent seat on the bench, predictably, left Adams confused and frustrated, and his departure from the program was all but expected.

"He's a competitor, and I'd be lying if I said he was on the bench happy that he wasn't in," quarterback Danny O'Brien said of Adams during the season. "It's been tough on him, and he's one of my best friends on the team. So we talk a lot and he's hanging in there, but he's not taking it well."

Adams is the second of what could be a slew of Terps to depart after Edsall's rocky inaugural season. Defensive end David Mackall, who was suspended for the team's final four games for a violation of team rules, was released from his scholarship last week.

Adams' future remains unclear as he takes the next step in his football career. He did not discuss where he might transfer in his letter, but he would likely have to sit out a year if he transferred to another Division I program.

"I take with me cherished memories of Terrapin football, lifelong friendships and valuable life lessons," Adams wrote. "I wish Coach Edsall, the coaching staff, and the Maryland football program as a whole much success today and always."

Through a team spokesman, Edsall declined to comment.

cwalsh@umdbk.com