Just two days before the NFL’s deadline for declaring for the April draft, USC has lost its second player this year to early entry into the bog boy football league.
Cornerback Nickell Robey confirmed to Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times that he is leaving his remaining eligibility on the table and making himself available for the draft in three months. Robey said he informed head coach Lane Kiffin of his decision this past week.
“He respected my decision,” the defensive back told Klein. “It’s a business decision, like any other important decision I’ve made my whole life.
“It’s the best thing for my family and for me.”
The past three seasons, Robey has started every game at corner for the Trojans, a streak of 37 consecutive games. He was named second-team All-Pac-12 following the 2012 season.
According to his USC bio, Robey was the first USC true freshman to start a season opener at cornerback in the post-World War II era.
Robey becomes at least the 70th player overall and the 12th defensive back to make the early leap.
(Photo credit: USC athletics)