Iowa has granted running back Marcus Coker his release from the program after the sophomore withdrew his application to enroll in spring semester classes.

Coker, the Big Ten’s second-leading rusher in 2011 with 1,384 yards, was suspended for the Insight Bowl for an unspecified violation of university policies and Iowa’s student-athlete code of conduct.

Coach Kirk Ferentz never elaborated on Coker’s suspension, but said he hoped Coker would rejoin the team at some point.

The team on Tuesday said Coker asked for a release from his scholarship, which was granted.

Coker is the latest promising Iowa running back to leave the team. The Hawkeyes announced last week that freshman Mika’il McCall would leave the program.

Adam Robinson, who led the team in rushing last season before being suspended for a bowl game, didn’t return for the 2011 campaign. Jewel Hampton and Brandon Wegher also have departed the Iowa program.

Coker filled in for Robinson at the 2010 Insight Bowl and had 219 rush yards and two touchdowns. He led Iowa with 281 carries and scored 15 rush touchdowns this past season.

The move leaves Iowa thin at running back for 2012. Freshman Jordan Canzeri, who led the team with 58 yards rushing in a 31-14 loss to Oklahoma in the bowl game, would appear to be in line for the starting job.