De'Von Richardson dismissed from academy

Starting sophomore safety De'Von Richardson was dismissed from the Naval Academy because of academic reasons, dealing another blow to a defensive backfield that this season will be without safety Wyatt Middleton and cornerback Kevin Edwards, both senior starters last year.

Richardson, who attended Bowie High School and was named honorable mention All-Met, played in 12 of Navy's 13 games last year, including starting the final nine after senior Emmett Merchant had his season end because of concussion-related symptoms.

Defensive coordinator Buddy Green last season called Richardson an "unsung hero" on his way to 55 tackles and four pass breakups. Richardson had his only interception in a 35-17 victory over Notre Dame at New Meadowlands Stadium.

Also dismissed for academic reasons was freshman linebacker Brandon Killebrew, who attended C.H. Flowers High School. Killebrew did not participate in any games for the Midshipmen.