Clifton Richardson leaving UVa. football program

Virginia football head coach Mike London announced Thursday (May 16) that junior running back Clifton Richardson (Newport News, Va.) is leaving the Cavaliers’ program. He will have two years of athletic eligibility left.

“Clifton Richardson has been granted permission to seek a release from his scholarship to pursue opportunities elsewhere,” said London. “Clifton will be leaving the University in good academic standing. I wish the best for Clifton as he pursues his academic and athletic goals.”

Richardson appeared in 20 games during his UVa career, including all 13 as a true freshman in 2011. During Richardson’s rookie campaign, the running back rushed 72 times for 366 yards and two scores. Hampered by a lower extremity injury in 2012, Richardson appeared in seven games and carried the ball 24 times for 59 yards. He leaves UVa with 96 career carries for 425 yards and two scores. Richardson also made two career receptions for 26 yards and one touchdown.