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RB Mike Epstein pens heartfelt goodbye to Illinois
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Illinois running back Mike Epstein has penned a farewell letter to the school, fans, teammates and coaches. He released his message in a social media post on Monday afternoon.
Epstein spent 5 years at Illinois, where he proved to be an outstanding player when healthy. Unfortunately, the running back’s career in Champaign was hindered by injuries.
Because of injuries and the COVID-19 waiver, Epstein could’ve have decided to return to Illinois for at least one more season of eligibility. He was eligible for a redshirt season in both 2019 and 2021. He could potentially receive a medical waiver from the NCAA, too.
Per 247Sports, Epstein has not entered his name into the transfer portal at this time. Below is the tweet Epstein sent out on Monday:
Epstein appeared in 23 career games for the Fighting Illini but never played a complete season. Still, the running back piled up 1,276 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground when he was on the field. He was also responsible for 180 yards and a touchdown on 18 catches.
In 2021, Epstein appeared in just 3 games and totaled 107 yards on 25 carries. He scored 1 touchdown.
Epstein eclipsed 300 yards on the ground in 3 seasons — 2017, 2018 and 2020. He rushed for at least 3 touchdowns in each of those seasons, as well.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB