If/when Todd Graham is officially named as head coach of the Pittsburgh Panthers, he’ll take over a depth chart that’s officially lost two of its most explosive playmakers on offense.
As expected, it was announced Monday evening that wide receiver Jon Baldwin and running back Dion Lewis have decided to leave eligibility on the table and make themselves available for the April draft. Additionally, and surprisingly, fullback Henry Hynoski has decided to join his teammates in the draft pool.
In the aftermath of Dave Wannstedt‘s “resignation” last month, Baldwin announced on his way to throwing everyone under the bus that he was turning pro. It was reported last week that, barring a change of heart, Lewis would be taking his leave of the Pitt football program.
Baldwin, a two-time first-team All-Big East performer, finished the season with 53 catches for 822 yards and five touchdowns. His career receiving yardage total of 2,337 ranks sixth all-time at Pitt, while his receptions total of 128 ranks eighth.
Lewis rushed for 2,860 yards in just two seasons at Pitt, eclipsing former standout LeSean McCoy’s school record for rushing yards as a freshman and sophomore. (McCoy had 2,816 yards from 2007-08.) Lewis ranks fourth overall on the Panthers’ career rushing list.
Hynoski was Pitt’s starting fullback each of the past two years. Here are the statements from the three players on their decisions:
Jon Baldwin:
“After careful consideration and discussions with my mother and father, as well as helpful information from Coach Wannstedt regarding my draft status, I have decided to forego my senior season and enter the NFL Draft. I want to thank God for his blessings on my life, as well as my parents for all of their continued support. I want to also thank the University of Pittsburgh, Coach Wannstedt, Chris LaSala and the rest of the coaching staff for the opportunities and guidance they have given me in aiding my development as a student, as a player and as a person at the University. The direction they have provided throughout my three years at Pitt has prepared me for this next step in my life. I wish the University, my teammates, and fans of the program all the best in the future. I will forever be grateful to them for all they have done for me. Hail to Pitt!”
Henry Hynoski:
“After a long discussion with my close family members I feel that the current time is my best opportunity to fulfill my life-long dream of entering the NFL Draft. Along with information I received about my potential draft status, I will earn my degree in April in business marketing. I want to thank Coach Wannstedt, Coach Cignetti and Coach Walker for the wonderful opportunity they have given me to succeed at this outstanding university. I would also like to thank the people of Pittsburgh, as well as my hometown, for their constant support throughout my years here. I wish the best of luck to my team members and I look forward to following the future successes of the Pitt program.”
Dion Lewis Statement:
“After significant discussion and contemplation with my family and coaches, it is with great excitement and anticipation that I announce today that I am declaring myself eligible for this spring’s NFL Draft. I want to thank the University of Pittsburgh, particularly Coach Wannstedt and his staff, for the opportunities afforded me during the last two years. I look forward to the challenges facing me as an NFL rookie, and I believe my time here at the University of Pittsburgh under Coach Wannstedt’s tutelage has prepared me extremely well for the demands awaiting me at the next level.”