Fresnot State’s defensive backfield just got a bit more scarce after head coach Tim DeRuyter announced redshirt sophomore cornerback Bryan Harper and redshirt safety Justin Holmes have decided to leave the team due to personal reasons.
Harper transferred to Fresno State from Arizona and was the starting cornerback for the first two games. However, he struggled to make open field tackles and lost his starting job.
After redshirting as a true freshman, Holmes failed to make a tackle this season. He was absent from the team’s practice earlier this week.
“Both of them are leaving for personal reasons,” head coach Tim DeRuyter said. “We appreciate their contributions and we wish them well in the future.”
This is unfortunate news for a Fresno State team that has been dismal in pass coverage, ranking 107th nationally among bowl subdivision teams, and 10th in their conference in passing yards allowed per game (277.8). These two did not play significant roles for the team so their departures are not devastating. But having youth buried on your depth chart is a strong foundation for building a program, and their absence cuts into the Bulldogs’ depth at the position.
This decision does open the door for freshmen cornerback Anthoula “Tank” Kelly and safety Deshawn Potts to see increased roles.
Fresno State (2-3) is looking to win their third straight game after starting off the season 0-3. They face off against San Diego State this Saturday at 10 p.m. ET.
*Section photo credit to Mark J. Terrill/AP; Featured photo (above) credit to Harry How
