Protests aiming for racial equality have taken place around the country since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last month, and many college football players have participated in the events. Those players include many members of the Texas Longhorns, who released a joint statement earlier this month demanding -- among other things -- the school replace its the alma mater "Eyes of Texas," a song that has racial undertones.
Linebacker Juwan Mitchell has taken it a step further. The junior from Newark, New Jersey, released a statement on his Twitter account Wednesday night stating that he no longer feels as if representing Texas matches his ideals.
"When I look in the mirror in the morning, I want to tell myself I did the right thing. That should be everyone's mindsets. It's not about blacks vs. whites, or cops (vs.) blacks. It's about doing what's right! With that being said, I do not feel comfortable representing the University of Texas."
The 6-foot-1, 245-pounder elaborated on his perception of the program.
"We put our blood, sweat and tears in every day so the city of Austin can enjoy their Saturday's," he wrote. "For once, we decide to voice our opinions about things that can help better the community. It seems they only have our front but not our backs. People who want to create change don't care how much money can be lost, don't care about who hates them or any bad outcomes that may happen. The only thing on your mind should be equality."
Mitchell played in 11 games in 2019 after transferring from Butler Community College in Kansas. He registered 39 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and three sacks.
