Carson Finalizes Oregon Departure

EUGENE – University of Oregon football coach Chip Kelly confirmed that running back Tra Carson did not return to school for the start of the spring term classes Monday, and intends to transfer closer to home.

Speculation emerged that the Texarkana, Texas running back would not return to Oregon for a second year after he conveyed those sentiments through social media channels earlier this winter. However, he apparently had not completely dismissed the notion of a return to Oregon until shortly before the end of the winter term.

The 6-0, 227-pound Carson ran for 254 yards and one touchdown in 10 games as a true freshman in 2011, in addition to catching one pass for 6 yards.