Nathan Brink to forgo 5th year at Michigan because of injury

Michigan defensive lineman Nathan Brink will not return for a fifth season with the Wolverines. Coach Brady Hoke made the announcement on Monday at the team's postseason banquet. Brink's decision was strongly influenced by injury struggles this season, according to Mark Snyder of the Detroit Free Press.

Brink missed Michigan's final eight games after suffering an undisclosed injury at a practice some time in late September. The Michigan native served as a backup defensive tackle, playing in four games this season. He is not expected to play against South Carolina in the Outback Bowl. Last season Brink appeared in 11 games for the Wolverines. Brink finishes his career with three tackles.

Brink walked on as a freshman, and earned a scholarship this season. He is expected to graduate in the spring with a degree in sociology. The news of Brink's departure was expected, as the defensive lineman participated in Michigan's Senior Day festivities last month.