Citing personal and family issues, Harrell directly to HU students, alumni and fans in a statement.
“After much consideration and discussion with my family, advisers and several people at Howard University, it is with much sadness that I announce today that I will be taking a leave of absence for the 2013 season.”
Harrell, a former reciever for the Bison, took over the program in 2011. In just his second year, he led Howard to a 7-4 record. Those seven wins were the most by Howard in over a decade. Former HU head coach Rayford Petty will serve in Harrell’s stead as the interim coach.
“I want to stress that this is only a temporary leave of absence,” Harrell said, “and I look forward to returning to the sidelines in 2014 as the Bison continue to build a championship team.”