Harrisonburg, VA – James Madison University quarterback Justin Thorpe has been granted a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA, school officials announced Monday.
The local Virginia product will now be listed as a redshirt junior moving forward in the 2012 season.
During his first year at JMU in 2008, Thorpe suffered a season-ending knee injury. In the 2010 season opener, he was injured once again versus Morehead State and missed that season as well.
Although it is not common by the NCAA, if a player has been injured twice resulting in season-ending problems, there is a possibility for a sixth year of eligibility.
When healthy, Thorpe has thrived as a starter for the Dukes, compiling an overall career record of 14-4 versus FCS opponents. This season, he is JMU's leading rusher with 261 yards and three touchdowns, and has completed 61-for-98 passes for 728 yards and five scores.
The news comes after JMU's bye week. The No. 5 Dukes are preparing to host defending CAA champion Towson at Bridgeforth Stadium on Saturday.
Fox News First
Get all the stories you need-to-know from the most powerful name in news delivered first thing every morning to your inbox.
By entering your email and clicking the Subscribe button, you agree to the Fox News Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and agree to receive content and promotional communications from Fox News. You understand that you can opt-out at any time.