Florida defensive line coach Bryant Young resigns for personal reasons

Florida defensive line coach Bryant Young resigned today, with Florida releasing the news through GatorZone's Scott Carter.

Young gave this statement on his resignation, which he called a "personal decision."

"After heavy consideration and giving over two decades to the game of football, I have made a personal decision to resign from my position at the University of Florida in order to pursue more time with my family."

"I am humbled by and grateful for the opportunity I have had to positively influence the hardworking student-athletes and young men whom I will surely miss."

"However, I have come to the realization that it is time to invest more in my family during this fleeting season in life."

"I have truly loved my time being a Gator, enjoyed a great working relationship with Coach Muschamp and will also miss the dedicated staff at this University."

"I am extremely thankful for the opportunity and support I have received from Coach Muschamp, Jeremy Foley and the entire athletic department."

Will Muschamp also gave this statement to Carter:

"We are very thankful for Coach Young’s contributions to the program and I respect his decision. This is strictly a personal decision and has nothing to do with NCAA compliance, but just an opportunity to evaluate his future path. I always have and will continue to be very supportive of Coach Young and his family. Our entire staff will be there for him to provide any assistance and guidance in the future. We wish he and his family nothing but the best."

Young worked mostly with defensive tackles in his two seasons as Florida's defensive line coach, with defensive coordinator Dan Quinn largely handling the defensive ends. Likely top-five NFL Draft pick Sharrif Floyd said Young had "a great impact" on him in a February GatorZone article.

The hiring of Brad Lawing as Florida's defensive line coach and associate head coach in January brought with it speculation that Young's contract might not be renewed, but nothing came of that speculation at the time. I think it is likely that Florida will enter the 2013 season with Lawing as its only defensive line coach.