A little late to this one but, for the third time this year, Florida State has lost a starter to early entry into the professional ranks.
Both Warchant.com and the Palm Beach Post, among others, are reporting that offensive lineman Menelik Watson has decided to take his leave of the Seminoles in order to declare for this April’s NFL draft. The school generally does not confirm underclassmen departures -- unanimous All-American Bjoern Werner being an exception for obvious reasons -- but we have been assured Watson is indeed leaving.
After transferring from the JUCO ranks last year, Menelik started 12 games at tackle for the Seminoles, earning honorable mention All-ACC honors following the season. The Post writes that Menelik “has played just 20 games since come to this country from Manchester, England, 12 at FSU, eight at Saddleback [Junior College].”
Menelik joins Werner and defensive back Xavier Rhodes as Seminoles who have left early for the NFL this year. Safety Lamarcus Joyner announced he was returning for his senior season, while Rivals is reporting that linebacker Christian Jones is leaning toward doing the same.