Francis Bernard (BYU Photo)
Junior linebacker Francis Bernard was arrested early Oct. 21 for an alcohol-related citation. Bernard was booked into Utah County Jail at 2:30 a.m. on suspicion of driving under the influence.
At this morning's press conference, BYU football coach Kalani Sitake said Bernard is no longer with the team.
'I care about (Bernard) as a person,' said coach Kalani Sitake at his weekly media availability on Monday. 'He had asked for a release a couple of weeks back, and we granted him a release.'
Sitake added that Bernard had withdrawn from school and was looking at options, including returning to BYU.
'I wish him the best in finding what's the best place for him,' he said. 'I care about him.'
Bernard was redshirting this season after participating in spring and fall camps with the team. He had 80 total tackles and three interceptions in 2016 and did not participate in the Poinsettia Bowl last December.
Marvin Hifo (BYU Photo)
As a freshman in 2015, Bernard saw time as a running back, recording 334 yards and seven touchdowns.
Former teammate Marvin Hifo was a passenger in Bernard's car Saturday morning and was cited for having an open container of alcohol.
Hifo transferred to BYU from Mt. San Jacinto College and had 18 total tackles in six games this year. According to Sitake, Hifo left the team and school after suffering an injury a few weeks ago and is also no longer on the team.
Later in the week, current running back Ula Tolutau was cited for marijuana possession.