Georgia Tech offensive lineman Errin Joe’s attempt to extend his career one extra season has been denied by the NCAA, much like quarterback Tim Byerly’s request for an additional season was turned down last week.
Joe, who missed the 2011 season as a redshirt, the 2013 season due to a preseason shoulder injury and half of the 2012 season with a foot injury, learned his fate Monday.
“I would have loved to have played another year,” Joe said Wednesday. “I was really excited about the whole opportunity.”
Joe, who had been working out with the team in hopes of hearing good news, said he will return home to Lakeland, Fla., and begin training for Tech’s pro day. Joe sought to have his eligibility extended to a sixth year, having missed two seasons with the redshirt and shoulder injury. He also missed the final seven games of the 2012 season (including the postseason) with a foot injury.
The NCAA can grant a sixth year – athletes typically have five years to complete four seasons of competition – when athletes lose more than one year due to circumstances beyond their control. Tech attempted to demonstrate the 2012 season was also lost due to injury, but the NCAA did not agree. Joe suffered a season-ending injury in the seventh game of the season, one game too late in the season by the rules regarding medical redshirts.
Joe thanked Tech’s compliance office and coach Paul Johnson for their effort and support of his pursuit of a waiver. In addition to his pro-day preparation, Joe said he also has an internship lined up with Russell Athletic.
His career ends with 27 games played, 16 starts and a prominent role in helping the Jackets win 11 games in the 2014 season, including the Orange Bowl. He earned his degree in literature, media and communication last December and was in the midst of obtaining a second degree in economics.
“I know I gave it my all for Tech,” Joe said. “I’ll forever be a Yellow Jacket. Whatever the program needs from me as an alum, I’ll do it.”
