TCU's starting linebacker Joel Hasley leaves program

TCU starting linebacker Joel Hasley has left the program. (Cooper Neill/Getty Images) TCU's starting linebacker Joel Hasley left the program on Monday to

TCU starting linebacker Joel Hasley has left the program. (Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

TCU's starting linebacker Joel Hasley left the program on Monday to pursue other interests, TCU head coach Gary Patterson announced.

Hasley is a junior who has already received a communications degree and is near completion of a geology degree. The defensive unit was returning nine starters from the Big 12's top-ranked defense.

Hasley played in 12 games last season, including 10 starts at linebacker.  He was second on the team with 79 tackles and also second on the team with 8.5 tackles for loss.

"I'd like to thank Joel for everything he's done for TCU and his commitment to our program,” Patterson said in statement. “We will miss him and wish him the best."