USC football: Defensive lineman George Uko will enter NFL draft

The exodus of USC’s draft-eligible juniors continued Tuesday as defensive lineman George Uko announced that he would make himself available for the NFL draft.

Uko, who made his announcement on his Twitter feed, is the third player to leave, joining safety Dion Bailey and center Marcus Martin.

Receiver Marqise Lee, projected as a first-round draft pick, also is expected to announce he will forgo his final season of eligibility.

The 6-foot-3, 275-pound Uko was a two-year starter.

This season he had 36 tackles, including five sacks. He also blocked two kicks.

New USC Coach Steve Sarkisian has yet to hire a defensive line coach.

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