Furman, linebacker Ellis part ways

(STATS) - Furman will return an experienced defense in 2018, but it won't include one of its young leaders from last year, linebacker Reynard Ellis.

Ellis, who paced the team in tackles as a freshman, has left the program in a mutual decision with second-year coach Clay Hendrix. The Paladins are participating in spring practices, which conclude next week.

The 6-foot-1, 227-pound Ellis totaled 92 tackles - five for loss - two sacks and an interception in 12 games, making the Southern Conference all-freshman team. The Paladins (8-5) qualified for the FCS playoffs for the first time since 2013.