David Barrent Leaves Michigan State Football Team Due to Medical Issues

by Pete Rossman on May 10, 2011 5:08 PM CDT in Michigan State Spartans Football

Offensive Tackle David Barrent was one of the gems of Michigan State's 2009 recruiting class, then a 6'8" 290 pound offensive tackle ranked as one of the top 100 football recruits in the nation by Rivals. He's had health issues throughout his Spartan career, and like Joe Boisture did a few months ago, Barrent has chosen to take a medical disqualification due to chronic lower-back issues. Here's a quote from the press release:

"I'll miss the camaraderie," Barrent said. "I've made lifelong friendships, but I'll definitely miss being on the field competing with my teammates. I'm thankful for the opportunity to remain close to the program while pursuing my bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering."

Barrent will remain on scholarship as he pursues a degree in mechanical engineering. He was Academic All Big-Ten last season, so it looks like the Iowan is well on his way to a productive career. From one Spartan engineer to another, here's hoping that David graduates and has close to a pain-free life as possible.

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Good luck in all your endeavours Mr. Barrent

by natron3030 on May 10, 2011 5:17 PM CDT reply actions

Very unfortunate.

I think we all were excited to see him on the field, but I’m sure he will represent MSU well off the field.

Best of luck to him in his recovery.

by Stuka on May 10, 2011 5:37 PM CDT reply actions

Is this similar to what Joe Boisture had to make him hang his cleats up?

by mkstock28 on May 10, 2011 6:33 PM CDT reply actions

Best wishes...

….best of luck and all that to David Barrent. It’s a shame he couldn’t continue his football career, but I hope that by not putting his body through the ringer now maybe he can have a better life later.

by witless chum on May 11, 2011 5:49 AM CDT reply actions

Too bad

but I wish the guy the best of luck in the future

by Stones1981 on May 11, 2011 7:35 AM CDT reply actions

6-8 290

i imagine back pain has to magnify with a man that size.

good luck and good health.

by tbone521 on May 11, 2011 7:55 AM CDT reply actions

I don't think it's a stretch to say

that he would be the largest mechanical engineer ever to graduate from MSU.

"You can look at the dinosaur that weighs you down or you can look at the big pot of gold (and) try to say, 'You know what? I'm going to try to live up to expectations.' " -Tom Izzo, Iron Mountain Philosopher

by Ducking Delvon on May 11, 2011 2:13 PM CDT up reply actions

at least until we know petes measurements.

by tbone521 on May 11, 2011 4:19 PM CDT up reply actions

First

I graduated a Chemical Engineer.

Second, subtract a foot and about 110 pounds from Barrent’s measurements, and we’re closer to where I’m at.

The Only Colors - SBNation's Michigan State University Community

by Pete Rossman on May 11, 2011 6:53 PM CDT up reply actions

Hate to see that

That has to be an extremely tough decision for a 20-year old kid to make (especially with how high the expectations were for his career), but it sounds like it was the mature thing to do. Wish him the best on getting that degree and staying in good health.

by Ducking Delvon on May 11, 2011 12:19 PM CDT reply actions

This is too bad

Whether you’re a top stud recruit, or a practice squad long snapper, it really is too bad that he has to stop playing a game he likely loves & has played his whole life due to this.

Whatever the issue is, I hope it’s one that won’t negatively affect his life & livelihood going forward. Best of luck to him.

PS, I think its great he can remain on scholarship to finish his degree, not sure if this is something MSU is compelled to do, but even if that is the case, I’m happy for him that he can still have the scholly & pursue his degree.

by MSUDersh on May 11, 2011 1:40 PM CDT reply actions