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Update, 11:48 a.m.:
Clarification on French's academic status from UW:
Kyle is a double major in personal finance and economics. He is likely to graduate this spring if he just wants to complete one major. But if he also wants to complete his Econ major, that could take him in the summer as well.
Either way, French will be done with his undergraduate education by next fall.
French also tweeted this morning that the decision was mutual between himself and the program:
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Wisconsin kicker Kyle French announced Thursday via Facebook that he will forgo his senior season at UW.
French, currently a redshirt junior, was benched this week for sophomore Jack Russell, and head coach Gary Andersen also said Thursday that linebacker Chris Borland could kick longer field goals Saturday vs. Illinois.
French's Facebook post, as relayed by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
"I want to personally thank everyone who has supported me throughout my career in football. The coaches have asked me to forgo my senior season and focus on my career outside of football after this season. It has been a great ride, a time I'll never forget, and I'm excited for what is to come!"
The interesting part there is the coaches apparently asking French to step away. This season, French is 5-of-8 this season, with one missed extra-point attempt, as well. For his career, French is 18-of-29.
Wisconsin also has freshman kicker Andrew Endicott on the roster, who has impressed while handling kickoffs this season.
More from Bucky's 5th Quarter:
- Chris Borland -- yes, Chris Borland -- likely to be Wisconsin's long-distance kicker against Illinois
- Hockey series preview: Wisconsin at Boston College/Boston University
- Opponent Watch: Nathan Scheelhaase and Illlinois are Bipolar and Terrifying Edition
- From the Other Side: The Champaign Room previews Wisconsin vs. Illinois
- World Junior A Challenge: Recruit Seamus Malone named to Team USA
- USA TODAY Coaches Poll: Wisconsin basketball begins season ranked No. 21