If he decides to declare, Texas Tech’s Patrick Mahomes is considered by many to be one of the top quarterback prospects in the upcoming NFL draft. The junior led the country with 5,052 passing yards, but a recent surgery may become a curveball in his decision to go pro or stay in Lubbock for another season.
According to RedRaiderSports.com and ESPN.com, Mahomes recently underwent surgery on the scaphoid bone in his left (non-throwing) wrist. The injury, both reports say, will require rehab.
If the injury hinders Mahomes’ ability to participate in the pre-draft evaluation process, it could play a role in his decision to stay or go. The deadline to declare for the NFL is Jan. 17.
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It's currently unknown how that injury will affect Mahomes' decision to stay or enter the NFL Draft.
— Will McKay (@Will_R_Mckay) December 13, 2016
Per ESPN, the wrist injury occurred during Texas Tech’s loss to Oklahoma on Oct. 22. Mahomes, who was also nursing an AC joint sprain in his right shoulder, played the team’s final five games with the injury.
Mahomes put up huge numbers in the Red Raiders’ pass-happy offense. In addition to his 5,052 passing yards, Mahomes threw for 41 touchdowns and completed 65.7 percent of his passes. He also added 285 yards and 12 touchdowns rushing.
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If he does leave for the NFL, Texas Tech returns Nic Shimonek, who played well when Mahomes hurt his shoulder against Kansas. Shimonek completed 15-of-21 passes for 271 yards and four touchdowns in a 55-19 win.
Texas Tech went 5-7 this season.
For more Texas Tech news, visit RedRaiderSports.com.
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Sam Cooper is a writer for the Yahoo Sports blogs. Have a tip? Email him or follow him on Twitter!
