DURHAM, N.C. – Rising redshirt junior specialist Austin Parker has been reinstated to the Blue Devil football program, Duke head coach David Cutcliffe announced on Wednesday.

Parker was dismissed from the program on December 8, 2017, following his suspension from the institution for violation of university academic policy. The Mount Pleasant, N.C., native has been readmitted to Duke and begins the Summer I session today while resuming all football-related activities.

“During this process, Parker has displayed humility and wisdom while, through his actions, regaining our trust,” Cutcliffe said. “This certainly hasn’t been easy, but that’s the way life lessons can be taught. He went through the procedure for re-application to the school and, most importantly, continues his education here at Duke immediately with the first summer school session.”

Playing in 12 games last season, Parker made 17-of-21 field goal attempts and 33-of-35 point after touchdown tries to lead the Blue Devils in scoring with 84 total points. In addition, he punted 61 times for 2,565 yards and a 42.05 average with 10 boots downed inside the opponent 20 yard line against nine touchbacks.

In the ACC, Parker ranked third in field goals made per game (1.42), fourth in field goal percentage (.810), seventh in kick scoring (7.0), 10th in overall scoring, 10th in PAT percentage (.943), 10th in punting average and 18th in total points responsible. Nationally, he ranked 26th in field goals made per game, 32nd in field goal percentage and 54th in punting average.

Duke opens the 2018 season at home against Army West Point on September 1. Season tickets may be purchased by calling the Duke Athletic Ticket Office at 919-681-BLUE or online at GoDuke.com/FootballTix.