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It is no secret that Purdue’s offensive line will be a concern in 2019. Kirk Barron, Dennis Edwards, and Shane Evans have exhausted their eligibility, leaving three positions open. Matt McCann is a long time starter, but he injured his knee in the bowl game and will need to recover. Grant Hermanns has also battled injury as a full-time starter for two years. Today the depth took a hit as we have confirmed that Michael Mendez is leaving the program.
On behalf of my son Mike Mendez #55 and my family, we would like to thank @drwilliams131 & Coach Brohm for their full support these past 2 years. #Thankful&Blessed #BoilerUp #Evergrateful #HailPurdue pic.twitter.com/Tnjz9XuXDW
— Maria Mendez (@mmendez_maria) December 30, 2018
He has decided not to return next year. Will be focusing on youth leadership position in his local church and his career in education.
— Maria Mendez (@mmendez_maria) December 31, 2018
We also confirmed that second tweet via DM with his mother, Maria. Michael was in line to start next year after being a key reserve the last few seasons. He started three games in 2016 and was a key reserve the rest of the time. He appeared in 8 games in 2016, 11 in 2017, and was a top reserve at both guard and tackle this past season. He projected to start at one of the guard spots next year.
Mendez did graduate this December and has his Purdue degree. We’re proud to have him as a member of the Boilermaker family.