COLLEGE PARK, Md. – Head football coach Randy Edsall announced Monday that offensive lineman Max Garcia, quarterback Danny O’Brien and linebacker Mario Rowson requested and were granted their releases from the football program.

Quarterback Danny O'Brien played in nine games last season before being sidelined for the remainder of the year after breaking his arm against Notre Dame.

O’Brien played in nine games (seven starts) last season. The redshirt sophomore completed 150 of 266 passes for 1,648 yards with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions.

He had 4,086 passing yards during his two years.

“I’m disappointed by Danny’s decision,” Edsall said. “Danny told me that he’s not committed to our program, that he’s not ‘all in.’ I want what’s best for all of our players. Danny wants a fresh start elsewhere. I wish him well.”

Garcia, a sophomore, started all 12 games at left tackle in 2011. He played in just two games as a true freshman in 2010.

“Max showed great promise,” Edsall. “But after two seasons in College Park, Max is still homesick. He wants to transfer to a school closer to home (Norcross, Ga.) so his family can see him play.”

Rowson played in 11 games, including four starts, as a redshirt freshman in 2011. He posted 27 tackles, including three tackles for loss and one sack.

“Mario wants to play defensive back. Trouble is, we see Mario as a linebacker,” Edsall said. “I wish Mario well, where ever he decides to play.”

“Our primary mission is making our players the best students, the best athletes, and the best individuals they can be,” Edsall said. “Spring practice opens March 10. All of the coaches and players are counting the days until we get back on the field. We have a lot to prove in 2012.”

Official news release from Maryland Athletics