Edwards, Gant, James leave Gophers football program

Three players won't be returning to the Minnesota Gophers in 2016, leaving the program for various reasons. The Gophers announced Wednesday that Berkley Edwards, Desmond Gant and Craig James have all been granted their release from Minnesota.

Edwards, a sophomore running back, rushed for 140 yards on 30 carries with two touchdowns as a redshirt freshman, but had just five carries in 2015. He is leaving football to concentrate on track and field, where he was a state champion in Michigan in the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes.

Gant, a redshirt freshman wide receiver, didn't record any offensive statistics in 2015, playing mainly on special teams. According to a release put out by the team, Gant is "seeking an opportunity for more playing time."

James, a sophomore defensive back and punt returner, wants to play closer to his hometown of Edwardsville, Ill.