The Auburn linebacker corps just got a big hit, and not in the good way.
Chandler Wooten, a senior linebacker, has decided to opt out of the 2020 college football season.
It’s in Gods hands … #WarEagle 🖤 pic.twitter.com/BgHAEBnwEE
— Chandler Wooten (@ItsMeWootang) August 6, 2020
“Right around the time this pandemic began, I found out I would be welcoming a beautiful baby boy into the world this November,” Wooten tweeted. “As exciting as it is, it comes with a great deal of responsibility. As a soon-to-be father, my number one responsibility is the safety and well-being of my family. Unfortunately, playing this season was ultimately not a risk I was willing to take. I have ultimately decided to opt out of this season and redshirt.”
He has decided to take a redshirt season and return for the 2021 season.
In his junior season, Wooten recorded 27 total tackles with 4.5 tackles for a loss, one quarterback hurry and an interception.
Gus Malzahn responded to the news with a tweet of his own, supporting Wooten’s decision.
I had a good talk with Chandler and because of health concerns for he and his family, he’s decided to opt out of the 2020 season. We fully support and respect his decision and look forward to having him back next year. https://t.co/HSnJybLYnL
— Coach Gus Malzahn (@CoachGusMalzahn) August 6, 2020