USC defensive end Scott Felix had his appeal to restore his 2016 senior season of eligibility denied by the NCAA, ending his Trojan playing career.
Felix tested positive late last year for a substance banned by the NCAA.
"In life, people make mistakes and I am no different," said Felix. "I'm disappointed to say that I have lost my final year of eligibility in 2016. I took an over-the-counter supplement from a local nutrition store without consulting our medical staff, believing that there were no red flags in the supplement. I made a mistake in believing my research was enough to prove the supplement was safe to take. We are educated on these topics here at USC so that something like this never happens and I hope that it never will again. While this mistake was not done on purpose, I take full responsibility for my actions.
"I want to apologize to my teammates, my coaches, my family, my USC family, the amazing fans, and to the greats who paved the way here at USC."
Read Felix's entire statement here: Felix.pdf
USC is exploring ways for Felix to remain involved with the Trojan football program in some capacity in the fall. He is working on his bachelor's degree in theater.
"We are very appreciative of what Scott has done for our football team in his career," said USC head coach Clay Helton. "We are proud that he will continue to work on getting his degree and we will look for opportunities for him to stay involved with us in a support role in the fall."
In his USC career, Felix started 15 games and had 75 tackles, including 10.5 for losses. Last season as a 10-game starter, he posted 28 tackles, including 5.5 for losses (with 4 sacks).
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