Russellville quarterback Ta'Corian Darden is tackled by Mayfield defensive back Trajan Bright during Mayfield's 16-8 victory over Russellville on Friday, Oct. 24, 2014, in Russellville. (Austin Anthony/Daily News)

As quickly as it came, junior-college defensive end Tavita Faaiu’s time as a Western Kentucky verbal commit has gone.

Faaiu’s coach at City College of San Francisco confirmed Wednesday that the JUCO prospect had given a pledge to WKU, but Faaiu and the Hilltoppers have parted ways, according to a source.

Faaiu has reopened his recruitment and is visiting Wyoming this weekend. The 6-foot-3, 250-pounder is rated a two-star prospect and had previously decommitted from Oregon State.

Darden to take preferred walk-on spot

In other news, a familiar local face will be on the Toppers’ roster next season.

Russellville defensive back Ta’Corian Darden has accepted a preferred walk-on spot with WKU, according to RHS coach John Myers. Darden will have a ceremony Wednesday at the school.

The 5-foot-9, 170-pound prospect was a second-team all-state selection this year by The Associated Press.

He had five interceptions on defense and played a heavy role on offense and special teams for the Panthers. Darden threw for 871 yards and 10 touchdowns at quarterback, while also rushing for 645 yards and eight scores.

— Zach Greenwell