When it was announced that James Rodgers had received a medical hardship year from the NCAA, it was assumed that decision ensured Rodgers’ brother would return to Oregon State for another season.
Unfortunately for the Beavers, that’s not the case.
In a somewhat surprising turn of events, Jacquizz Rodgers announced Monday afternoon that he will enter the 2011 draft. Somewhat interestingly, the press release announcing Rodgers’ decision noted that Rodgers has until 72 hours after the NFL’s January 15 declaration deadline to withdraw his name.
“I’ve thought long and hard about this decision,” Rodgers said in a statement. “I want to thank all of Beaver Nation for their support throughout my time here at Oregon State. Without all of that support I wouldn’t be in this position.”
“We all at Oregon State wish Quizz the greatest success and look forward to watching his career continue in the NFL,” head coach Mike Riley said. “He has certainly impacted both the football team and our lives at Oregon State. He has set a tremendous example as an Oregon State football player.”
Rodgers leaves Corvallis as the school’s second all-time leading rusher with 3,877 yards, which also ranks sixth in Pac-10 Conference history. He is second with 46 rushing touchdowns and is tied for second with 19 games of 100-plus yards rushing. Rodgers is also the career leader in receptions by a running back with 151 and is third with 306 points scored in his career.
Rodgers, who says he intends to return to Oregon State to finish his degree, becomes the ninth underclassmen running back to declare for the NFL draft. You know how we know that? We clicked HERE, of course.