When Nebraska moves to the Big Ten for the 2011 season, they’ll do so with one of the top defensive lineman in the country in tow.
In a somewhat unexpected move, Jared Crick announced Tuesday that he will return to the Cornhuskers for another season. There were many who thought the defensive tackle would leave early and make himself available for the April NFL draft.
Fortunately for the ‘Huskers, that won’t be the case.
“I am staying at the University of Nebraska to finish my degree and complete my final season of eligibility on the football field,” Crick said in a statement. “Playing at Nebraska for coach Pelini is a great opportunity, and I am looking forward to continuing that in 2011. Hopefully, I will have the chance to play at the professional level in the future, but my focus right now is on the start of the semester and beginning winter conditioning next week.”
The 6-6, 285-pound redshirt junior was named a first-team All-Big 12 and second-team Associated Press performer following the 2010 season. His 9.5 sacks were good for second in the conference.
As a reminder, players have until Saturday, Jan. 15, to declare their intentions for the upcoming draft. And, speaking of declarations, you can check out all of the eligible underclassmen who have made the early leap by clicking HERE.