Michigan running back Donovan Edwards is opting out of the ReliaQuest Bowl against Alabama, marking the end of his Wolverines career.

Edwards is second on the team behind Kalel Mullings in carries (128), rushing yards (589) and rushing touchdowns (4) this season. He had 11 rushing yards on four carries in Michigan’s Nov. 30 upset of Ohio State.

“I just have a lot on my mind right now,” Edwards told WXYZ-TV on Saturday. “I haven’t really had the opportunity to look back and reflect, but for the most part, I’ve always been grateful for all the support that the Michigan fans have given me. … This place will always have a special place in my heart.”

Edwards joined Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter and Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers in appearing on the cover of College Football 25, the EA sports game that returned this summer after an 11-year hiatus. He was a team captain after helping Michigan to a national title and becoming the first player to record multiple touchdown runs of 40 yards or longer in the CFP national championship game.

Edwards also had memorable performances in 2022 against Ohio State and then Purdue in the Big Ten title game but played most of his career behind other Wolverines running backs.

Michigan also will be without defensive tackle Mason Graham, cornerback Will Johnson and tight end Colston Loveland — all top NFL draft prospects — when it faces No. 11 Alabama on Dec. 31 in Tampa, Florida.