CHAPEL HILL, N.C. -- Brian Walker has decided to leave the North Carolina football program, head coach Larry Fedora confirmed on Monday.



Walker, a junior cornerback who has posted 12 tackles and five pass break ups in a reserve role this season, did not travel with the team for last Thursday's game against Pittsburgh.



"I think he's interested in finding a place where maybe he can get more playing time," Fedora said during Monday's press conference.



The Charlotte, N.C. native was suspended for the 2014 season opener and then started the 12 remaining games of the season, recording 38 tackles and a team-high three interceptions. He started three games and had 21 tackles as a freshman.

"Honestly I didn't sense it was coming," said starting quarterback Marquise Williams, who attended the same high school as Walker (Mallard Creek). "Brian decided to move on and do what he needs to do and what's best for him and we're behind him 100 percent. He will truly be missed by this football team."

Walker tweeted out a statement on Monday afternoon, saying: "It was a blessing to play for UNC, best decision I made in my life. My teammates know me and my situation, much love to everybody!"