**San Diego State Football Player Marquez Cooper Placed on Extended Leave for Breaking Team Rules**
San Diego, CA – In a recent development, San Diego State University (SDSU) has announced that senior running back Marquez Cooper has been placed on extended leave from the Aztec football program due to a violation of team rules. The university confirmed the disciplinary action late Tuesday, but did not disclose the specific nature of the infraction.
Head Coach Brady Hoke addressed the situation briefly, stating, “We have high standards for our student-athletes both on and off the field. When those standards are not met, there are consequences. Marquez is a talented player, and we will support him as he works to resolve this matter, but at the same time, we have a responsibility to uphold the values of our program.”
The absence of Cooper will be a significant blow to the Aztecs’ offense. The 5’8″, 190-pound running back transferred to San Diego State prior to this season and quickly established himself as a key component in the team’s rushing attack. Before joining SDSU, Cooper had a standout career at Kent State University, where he recorded more than 1,000 rushing yards in two consecutive seasons.
With Cooper sidelined indefinitely, the Aztecs will look to their depth at the running back position. Juniors Jaylon Armstead and Kenan Christon, along with freshman Lucky Sutton, are expected to see increased roles in the upcoming games. Coach Hoke emphasized the need for the team to stay focused and rally around the “next man up” mentality, a core philosophy in the program.
San Diego State is currently in the middle of a challenging season, with the team struggling to find consistency in its play. The Aztecs are aiming to regain their footing in the Mountain West Conference, and the loss of a key player like Cooper adds another layer of difficulty to their efforts.
As for Marquez Cooper, his future with the team remains uncertain. The university has not provided a timeline for his potential return, stating that it will be contingent upon his compliance with the conditions set forth by the football program and the university.
In the meantime, SDSU fans will be hoping for a swift resolution that allows Cooper to rejoin the team, while also looking forward to seeing how the Aztecs adjust and respond to this latest challenge on the field. The program’s leadership remains committed to both the success of its athletes and the principles that guide them.
