Barring an absolutely unforeseen chain of events, South Carolina will lose Jadeveon Clowney to early entry into the April 2014 NFL draft. Around the same time, and barring a change of heart, the Gamecocks will lose another standout member of its defensive line as well.
The father of Kelcy Quarles confirmed to GoState.com the long-held speculation that his son will be leaving collegiate eligibility on the table in order to begin his professional career a year early. Buddy Quarles said the decision came after the defensive tackle and the coaching staff discussed the issue and decided this would be the best course of action for the younger Quarles to take.
“I think they all came to that conclusion,” Buddy Quarles said. “They had a good assumption that he’s going to be leaving.”
The elder Quarles said his son will submit his paperwork to the NFL Draft Advisory Committee in the next week or two. As if putting an exclamation point on the impending ending of his playing career, Quarles will walk with the seniors during the final home game of the year vs. Clemson the last weekend of this month, the father said.
This season, Quarles is tops on the Gamecocks with 11 tackles for loss and seven sacks. The latter number is good for third among SEC defensive players.