Routinely referred to as the fastest man in college football, Florida running back Jeff Demps has an alter ego, one that has always come second to football.
He’s a sprinter, and a damn good one at that.
Most know Demps for his eye-popping touchdowns that leave defenders choking on his proverbial dust. But don’t be surprised if Demps doesn’t return to play on Saturdays this fall. Because, frankly, he shouldn’t.
Now, before you lose your mind, let’s look at some facts.
Demps has multiple sub-10 second times in the 100-meter dash under his belt. He broke his own school record in the 60-meter dash with a 6.53 to win the NCAA Championships in March and his 9.96 time in the 100-meter dash in April, albeit wind-aided, would have been good for sixth at the 2008 Olympics.
Demps traveled to Italy last week to participate in a camp with the U.S. National Team.
Ten sprinters were invited to the camp and six will be selected to represent the United States at the IAAF World Championships in Athletics in Daegu, South Korea, from Aug. 27 to Sept. 4.
The 2012 Olympics are a large personal goal for Demps. Running in South Korea would be a huge springboard toward that goal.
Should the U.S. come calling, Demps is likely to answer.
Coach Will Muschamp seemingly left the door open for that possibility when he wouldn’t explicitly confirm a Demps return when questioned at Southeastern Conference Media Days on Wednesday.
While Muschamp said he “expects (Demps) to be a part of our football team,” he also said he had to have a sit-down meeting with Demps to determine when he will return.
With fall practice set to begin Aug. 6, the deadline for Demps to make a decision is fast approaching.
He’s already missed spring practice and the spring game, and, should he be selected and decide to run with the national team, Demps could miss the majority of fall practice and the first game (Sept. 3 vs. Florida Atlantic).
While he did attend meetings during the spring, Demps would surely struggle to adapt in new offensive coordinator Charlie Weis’ system without much practice time.
Plus, at 5-foot-8, 181 pounds, Demps does not fit the pro-style mold.
Why come back at that point? And would the coaching staff even want him back?
On the other hand, Demps is receiving offers to pursue a track career like never before. His accomplishments as a sprinter have come at football weight, and the U.S. coaches have to be salivating at the prospect of a slimmer Demps training full time as a runner — not a running back.
While Demps has the talent to be drafted and play in the NFL, his chance at stardom and a longer, more successful career is on the track.
Another season laboring away on the gridiron will only diminish that opportunity.
If he knows what’s good for him, Demps will leave his first love behind to pursue a career in the national spotlight.
