The early-entrant process for this year’s NFL Draft closed last weekend and a near-record 96 underclassmen declared themselves eligible. That fell just two short of the all-time mark of 98, set in 2014. All told, there are 107 players who will forgo their remaining eligibility for a shot at pro football, including 11 underclassmen who have graduated and therefore not considered early entrants. Peering over the data of how recent underclassmen have fared in the NFL Draft, nearly a third of them should be prepared for not having their names called on April 28-30 in Chicago. Here’s the breakdown since 2010: 2010 – 53 declared, 17 taken in the first round, 44 total drafted 2011 – 56 declared, 14 first round, 38 drafted 2012 – 65 declared, 19 first round, 44 drafted 2013 – 73 declared, 14 first round, 53 drafted 2014 – 98 declared, 16 first round, 62 drafted 2015 – 74 declared, 18 first round, 50 drafted This year probably should be no different, with underclassmen accounting for about half of the first-round draft choices, including probable top pick Joey Bosa of Ohio State and the first two quarterbacks taken in Cal’s Jared Goff and Memphis’ Paxton Lynch. These defections also will have profound influence on the 2016 college football seasons. Several teams are devastated by the losses of underclassmen while others are buoyed by the draft-eligible juniors returning to campus. Now we take a peek at the top five winners and losers: Losers: 1. Ohio State (total losses – 9): The Buckeyes were one shocking upset loss away from being able to defend their national title, and now they’re looking at a pretty daunting reloading project, even for Urban Meyer. Besides the departure of Bosa, Ohio State will also have to account for eight key losses, including running back Ezekiel Elliott and quarterback Cardale Jones. In all, the Buckeyes could have a total 14 players drafted, with only six starters returning on offense and defense. 2. …
Continue Reading: Winners And Losers In College Football’s Defection Game
