Press Release via WVU Athletic Communications

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – (December 14, 2017) – West Virginia Football Coach Dana Holgorsen has announced that senior running back Justin Crawford has decided not to participate in the 2017 Zaxby’s Heart of Dallas Bowl and will focus on his preparation for the 2018 NFL Draft.

“Justin has logged a lot of miles and been a key contributor for us the past two seasons,” Holgorsen said. “He made a decision to not play in the bowl game based on what is best for him and his family. He came to West Virginia to further his education and be a featured back in the Big 12 and he accomplished his goals. As he starts his preparation for the NFL Draft, we wish him nothing but the best.”

Crawford, a second-team All-Big 12 performer, was the third leading rusher in the Big 12 Conference with 1,061 yards and seven touchdowns. He had seven 100-yard rushing performances, including a season-high 125 yards against Kansas. He finished with multiple touchdowns against East Carolina (2) and Delaware State (3).

He became the first WVU running back to rush for back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons since Noel Devine in 2008 and 2009.

As a junior in 2016, Crawford finished with 1,184 yards and four touchdowns and was named the Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year as well as a All-Big 12 First-Team selection. He had a career-best 331 yards against Oklahoma and had 209 yards against Baylor.