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Dabo Swinney wonders if DeAndre Hopkins is making NFL Draft mistake

Clemson’s coach thinks the wide receiver would benefit from another year in college, which could help improve his draft stock and solidify his position as a first-round draft prospect.

Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

Clemson Tigers wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins recently declared for the 2013 NFL Draft, but his coach isn't so sure that was the right move. Dabo Swinney said he thinks another year in college would have been a good idea for Hopkins.

“I felt like another year would be beneficial to him from an overall growth standpoint,” Swinney said. “That’s my opinion. I’ve said this before: unless you are a first rounder I just don’t think it’s worth giving up your senior year in college. That’s what my life experience tells me.”

Hopkins is considered one of the top wide receivers in the draft class. SB Nation’s Dan Kadar ranks him as the third-best receiver in the draft, while NFL Draft scout has him at No. 6. Whether or not he’s able to work his way into the first round remains to be seen.

Hopkins finished the 2012 season with 82 receptions for 1,405 yards and 18 touchdowns. He led the Tigers by wide margins in all three categories.

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