On Wednesday afternoon, it was reported that former 5-star signee Josh Belk was no longer with the South Carolina football team.

That leaves a big hole along the defensive line, as Belk was expected to be a top player for the Gamecocks in 2019.

After the news was reported, coach Will Muschamp issued a statement saying Belk is no longer playing football, giving up the game. He also wished Belk luck moving forward (via 247Sports):

“After talking with Josh Belk, he has decided to give up the game. He is a fine young man and we wish him the best,” Muschamp said.

Belk appeared in four games in 2018, recording only seven tackles. He said a fractured vertebrae played a big part in his decision to retire from the game.