Report: NFL to Let Juniors in Draft
The NFL will change its longstanding policy and allow college juniors to enter this year’s draft, according to a report in today’s New York Times. Commissioner Paul Tagliabue could announce the decision as early as today.
Tagliabue reportedly decided to make the change after a number of prominent juniors announced they would skip their final seasons to enter the draft.
The NFL estimates that at least two dozen top players are considering leaving college this year. Official action by the NFL could add more players to the list.
Among the highly regarded juniors who have announced they are leaving college are running backs Reggie Cobb of Tennessee, Barry Foster of Arkansas, Rodney Hampton of Georgia, Emmitt Smith of Florida and Marcus Wilson of Virginia; quarterback Scott Mitchell of Utah; defensive lineman Marc Spindler of Pittsburgh; and linebackers Keith McCants of Alabama and Junior Seau of USC.
Quarterback Major Harris of West Virginia announced Thursday that he too will enter the draft.
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