CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – Due to ongoing concussion-related issues, sophomore running back Otis Gerron has elected to end his Austin Peay State University football playing career.
Gerron, from Dickson, was the Govs’ leading rusher in 2014 with 596 yards, despite missing most of two games after suffering a concussion at UT Martin. He opened 2015 as the Governors top back, but was forced to leave the Southern Miss game early due to concussion-like symptoms. After consulting with medical personnel this week, it was decided it was in Gerron’s best long-term interests to conclude his playing career.
“It’s definitely the right thing to do,” said head coach Kirby Cannon. “It’s one of those things where we came together with Otis and it was mutually decided that enough was enough. He came here as a non-scholarship player and accomplished his dream—he earned a scholarship, played at the Division I level and and played well at that level.
“We tell our guys all the time to do the right thing. The right thing here is to not try to talk him into playing, not try to convince him he’s at less risk than somebody else.”
Cannon indicated that Gerron would have the opportunity to remain involved with the Austin Peay football program in some capacity if he so chooses.