Andrew Billings, one of the best defensive linemen in the Big 12, is leaving Baylor for the NFL. The junior defensive tackle announced his decision in a statement provided to ESPN 1660 in Waco on Tuesday.
Via ESPN 1660, here is the full statement from Billings:
I would like to start by first thanking Baylor University and Coach Art Briles for providing the opportunity for me to become a member of the Baylor University family as a student and as a football player. I have been a part of something really special at Baylor University over the last three years and it has been a blessing to play college football in my hometown in front of all of my family and friends.
The last week or so I have been trying to carefully and thoughtfully make a very difficult decision as it relates to my future as a college athlete. After considerable thought, discussions, and praying with my family and coaches, I have decided to declare my intention to enter the 2016 NFL draft. My football career at Baylor will end this year but I plan to continue my course work as a part-time student until I finish my degree.
I want to also thank the entire Baylor Coaching staff and extend special thanks to Coach Bennett, Coach Achuff, Coach Kaz, former Baylor Coach Brian Norwood, and to the academic, equipment, and football operation staff who have all trained and guided me during my time at Baylor.
Finally, I want to thank all my family, friends, high school coaches, teammates, Baylor faculty and staff, and all of the Baylor fans for their support. I really appreciate it.
Thanks,
Andrew Billings
The 6-foot-2, 310-pound Billings was named the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2015 after registering 15 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. According to the Dallas Morning-News, Billings previously told reporters that he would not leave school early unless he was given a first-round grade by the NFL Draft advisory committee.
Billings is the third Baylor player to leave school early, joining wide receiver Corey Coleman and cornerback Xavien Howard.
Elsewhere, UCLA junior wide receiver Thomas Duarte is also headed to the NFL. Duarte caught 53 passes for 872 yards and 10 touchdowns this season.
Duarte’s father, Tim, told the Orange County Register that his on received a third-round grade from the advisory committee. Tim Duarte said the recent departure of offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone to Texas A&M played a part in the decision.
“It kind of helped to make his decision,” Tim Duarte said. “He (Mazzone) really recruited him and really had the confidence in him coming out of high school. Thomas was a perfect fit for his offense.”
Duarte is the sixth Bruin to declare for the draft. Linebacker Myles Jack, defensive tackle Kenny Clark, offensive lineman Alex Redmond, running back Paul Perkins and offensive lineman Caleb Benenoch already announced their decisions.
Players have until Jan. 18 to apply for early draft eligibility.
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Sam Cooper is a contributor for the Yahoo Sports blogs. Have a tip? Email him or follow him on Twitter!
