Even before the 2012 season had even started, it was widely expected and anticipated that Jarvis Jones would leave eligibility on the table to become a top-five pick in the 2013 draft.
Friday evening, the expected and anticipated came to fruition.
The standout All-American linebacker announced via a release through Georgia that he is indeed making himself available for the April draft. While Jones labeled the decision as “difficult,” it was the only realistic option for one of the most talented players in the country.
“This has been a difficult decision, and one that I have talked over with my family and coaches,” said Jones. “I want to thank my family, teammates, coaches and support staff and the Bulldog Nation for everything over the last three years. I will always appreciate the chance Georgia gave me after my injury at Southern Cal. There is nothing like the Bulldog fans and I will forever be proud to wear the ‘G’. I think this decision comes at the right time for me and my family and I look forward to seeing what the next level holds for me. Go Dogs!”
Jones was a consensus All-American in both 2011 and 2012, and likely would’ve been a Heisman finalist had he not been injured for two games early on in the season. He set a single-season school record this year with 14.5 sacks.
Depending how the run-up to the draft goes, Jones could very well be in line to be the overall No. 1 pick.