A week ago we had an item on Penn State linebacker Navorro Bowman thinking about the NFL Draft. He’s not the only talented junior or redshirt sophomore with an NFL future facing a difficult decision. Here are some others:
Draft decisions looming for Big Ten talents
Who: Bryan Bulaga, offensive tackle, Iowa
What’s being said: “As of right now no decision has been made,” Bulaga said last week. “No discussions between coach (Kirk) Ferentz and I have really even happened yet. I don’t know.”
What he should do: Bulaga has had a fairly ordinary season for a would-be stud left tackle. He missed the three games of the season battling a thyroid issue. His play has been inconsistent this season and he’s allowed pressure against some ordinary players. While Bulaga is highly regarded by me, it might be in his best interests to return for his senior season. By doing so, he could really establish as a dominant top-five pick.
Who: Greg Jones, linebacker, Michigan State
What’s being said: “If anything, I’m going to talk to my parents about it, but for right now I’m just getting ready for the bowl game,” Jones said.
What he should do: Jones has lead the Spartans in tackles for three consecutive years and is the reigning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. Jones is likely considered a second-round player, but his draft stock may be at its peak. He should leave. If he does, he’ll be a dependable starting linebacker almost immediately.
Who: John Clay, running back, Wisconsin
What’s being said: “If the opportunity presents itself and I think it is a high enough spot, I’d encourage him to go,” running backs coach John Settle said. “But if I think he can come back and help his status, then I’d encourage him to come back.
What he should do: Clay, a redshirt sophomore, would be wise to return for at least another season for the Badgers. As it stands, Clay might just be the latest productive Badgers back with a questionable NFL future.
Who: Donovan Warren, cornerback, Michigan
What’s being said: Warren said he will return for his senior season. The site is a Scout.com paid site, but the headline and lead paragraph made it to Google News.
Note: Illinois wide receiver Arrelious Benn and Penn State center Stefen Wisniewski have not discussed their possible NFL futures recently.
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