The decision on whether to declare for the NFL Draft or stay in school another year is perhaps the biggest decision a college football player can make, even bigger than deciding on which school to attend. Millions of dollars might be on the line, and it isn’t to be taken lightly.
Sometimes, the best decision is to stay in school.
That’s the dilemma facing several Clemson players. Underclassmen have until Jan. 15 to declare for the draft and the official list of early entrants will be released by the NFL on Jan. 19. Defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, defensive ends Clelin Ferrell and Austin Bryant, linebacker Kendall Joseph, left tackle Mitch Hyatt and wide receiver Deon Cain still have decisions to make.