Notre Dame Football: Torii Hunter Jr. Steps Away from Football

Torii Hunter Jr. is another name to add the list of departures from Notre Dame this week. In a tweet on Thursday, Hunter announced he will not return for fifth year of eligibility and will pursue a career in baseball.

"I came to Notre Dame to challenge myself, both in the classroom and on the field," Hunter said in a statement. "But in my time here, I found that this university offered a lot more than I would've ever imagined. The wisdom and knowledge that I've gained from my professors, the lifelong friendships, and the personal growth are only some of the things that have made my Notre Dame experience truly invaluable.

"It's hard to believe that my time at Notre Dame has come to an end. This university has provided me all the necessary tools, including an information technology management degree, to transition smoothly into the next phase of my life.

"After long consideration and prayer, I've decided not to pursue a fifth year at the University of Notre Dame, but rather follow a dream of playing professional baseball with the Los Angeles Angels.

"I want to say thank you to my coaches, teammates, professors, classmates and fans for all the support throughout my career. I'm truly blessed to be a part of the Notre Dame family. Go Irish!"

Hunter battled injuries over his three seasons, including a broken leg, a knee injury and a concussion. Despite all that he still had a productive career for the Fighting Irish. In three seasons with the Irish Hunter hauled in 73 passes for 949 yards and six touchdowns. This past season was his best yet as he was the team’s second leading receiver with 38 receptions for 521 yards.

In two seasons Hunter saw very limited action with the Fighting Irish baseball team. He played only in 23 games, garnering two starts, a .167 batting average and one RBI. Nevertheless, scouts saw Hunter’s potential as he was drafted by one of his father’s former teams, the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, in the 23rd round of last June’s Major League Baseball draft.

Hunter has been a busy man this past year. Aside from being drafted by the Angels, Hunter was a captain of the football team and got married during Notre Dame’s bye week.

Notre Dame’s receiving corps should still be a strong group next season as Hunter and Corey Holmes are the only ones who won’t return.