This article was originally published with Dawgs247 on November 17, 2015 and can be found here. 

ATHENS — Georgia head coach Mark Richt announced on Tuesday that Keith Marshall would not seek a medical redshirt and will leave the Bulldogs after the 2015 season. Some people missed Richt’s remarks, including Marshall’s roommate, senior kicker Marshall Morgan.

“I didn’t know that,” Morgan said. “Keith? Whoa. He didn’t tell me that. When did this happen? I was up studying late with him last night, but he didn’t mention it.”

Richt said earlier in the day Marshall came to him around a month ago with his decision. Marshall wanted to be included in the senior night festivities for Saturday’s game against Georgia Southern. The Bulldogs head coach explained nothing was set in stone and the Raleigh, North Carolina native would be welcomed back if he changed his mind.

Marshall has had a perplexing senior season. He stands third on the team with 255 yards and has scored four total touchdowns through 10 games. He has, however, been limited in many instances this season, tallying four carries or less in four contests. He was held out of the Auburn victory last week because of injuries to his knee and ankle.

After having a few moments to think about the decision, Morgan offered his roommate props for aiming towards the next level.

“Kudos to him,” Morgan said. “I don’t know what he based his decision on, but I’ll definitely have to talk to him in a few minutes.”

Several other players voiced their thoughts on the outgoing running back.

“I’ve known Keith for the entire time I’ve been here,” senior tight end Jay Rome said. “He’s definitely a leader on this football team. Keith’s always been that guy that people gravitate to. He’s just that type of talent and he brings it every day. People respect that about him.”

Senior fullback Quayvon Hicks came into Georgia with Marshall as well as St. Louis Rams rookie Todd Gurley. After working alongside Marshall for the last four years, he understands the obstacles Marshall has had to overcome in his time in Athens. He thinks the timing is right for Marshall to take the next step.

“I believe he’s paid his dues,” Hicks said. “He’ll be graduating this December. I believe he’s a very intelligent guy.”

Georgia’s players sounded excited for Marshall’s future and anxious to see how he does at the professional level. The only one who may remain bitter in Marshall’s move is Morgan.

“I guess I need to find a new roommate,” Morgan said.