Pittsburgh running back Rushel Shell to transfer

PITTSBURGH (AP) -- Pittsburgh freshman running back Rushel Shell is transferring. Coach Paul Chryst released a statement early Tuesday saying the team's

PITTSBURGH (AP) -- Pittsburgh freshman running back Rushel Shell is transferring.

Coach Paul Chryst released a statement early Tuesday saying the team's second-leading rusher a year ago will not be back for the 2013 season. Shell took a leave of absence from the Panthers last week, and after a few days consulting with his family decided to continue his college career elsewhere.

The 19-year-old rushed for 641 yards and four touchdowns last season while sharing the workload with senior Ray Graham. Shell was expected to be the primary back for the Panthers next season when they join the ACC.

Shell signed with Pitt in 2012 following a record-setting career at Hopewell (Pa.) High, where he set a state record with 9,078 career yards rushing.