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The Buckeyes have one less player in their secondary, as four-star recruit Jayme Thompson has been given his release from the team.
BREAKING: Former four-star safety recruit Jayme Thompson (2013) has release from Ohio State, will visit UK for spring game.
— Justin Rowland (@RowlandRIVALS) April 16, 2014
Thompson almost committed to Kentucky as a Class of 2013 prospect but opted to stay in Ohio. Now thinks it's "just time for a change."
— Justin Rowland (@RowlandRIVALS) April 16, 2014
Thompson missed last season with a broken ankle but had three tackles in the recent Ohio State spring game.
The 6-2, 190 pound safety from Toledo Central Catholic had offers from West Virginia, Vanderbilt, Cal, Nebraska, Missouri, and others, along with Kentucky. During his recruiting process, Thompson originally committed to West Virginia, before flipping to Ohio State, and still felt fondly about the staff there. Eleven Warriors reports that Thompson may also consider Penn State, Rutgers and Louisville, in addition to Kentucky and WVU, although it's questionable whether or not he would be allowed to transfer to another Big Ten school by the staff.
Thompson will at least attempt to get immediate eligibility:
Thompson's father also says Jayme will seek a medical waiver allowing him to be eligible this fall. If not, will sit and have 3 yrs left.
— Dave Briggs (@DBriggsBlade) April 16, 2014
His departure puts the Ohio State at 82 scholarship players, which is the most they can have at the beginning of the football season. After sanctions expire this fall, the Buckeyes will be back up to a full allotment of 85 scholarships.
Best of luck to Thompson wherever he ends up.