Less than a day later, the reports have been confirmed.
In a move that was expected even before the start of the 2016 season, Christian McCaffrey announced Wednesday that, yes, he will be foregoing his remaining eligibility and making himself available for the 2017 NFL draft. In a lengthy statement, McCaffrey, whose father Ed played for the Denver Broncos, said that "[s]ince I was 6 years old, I’ve wanted to play in the NFL.”
“Now, it’s time to take that step,” the all-purpose Stanford running back said, adding, “There’s nothing more I can put on film.”
Below is McCaffrey’s statement, in its entirety:After three incredible years at Stanford, I’ve decided the time is right to enter the NFL Draft.
Since I was 6 years old, I’ve wanted to play in the NFL. It’s been on every list of goals that I’ve ever written. Now, it’s time to take that step. There’s nothing more I can put on film.
I love Stanford more than anything. It will be extremely hard to leave. I feel humbled and inspired every day by the peers who surround me. I came to Stanford because I wanted to be challenged more than I ever have in my life. And that desire is shared by everyone who walks on this campus, by people who literally will change the world.
I plan on getting my communication degree in the future. I don’t know when, but I will finish. As soon as my career takes shape, I’ll figure out a plan. Stanford does a great job of encouraging former players to return and graduate. Many come back and walk the same halls after their football careers are over to earn their degrees. I want to be that example for the next generation.
I’ve talked to many in and out of the game and received advice from people whose opinions I greatly respect, including Toby Gerhart, who was here for a game this season. I took their feedback and came to a conclusion: I’m ready.
I talked to Coach Shaw about everything. He completely agreed. Really, it just made sense. The opportunity is right in front of me.
Simply put, this is the best time to live out my dream.
McCaffrey was runner-up in the 2015 Heisman Trophy voting. While he didn’t have the all-around season he did a year ago -- he set the FBS single-season all-purpose yardage record -- he averaged more yards rushing per game and more yards per game in 2016.
A triple-threat, McCaffrey is expected to go in the first couple of rounds of the draft.