Of all of the Power Five programs, Auburn has been hit hard by early draft attrition this year.
On social media Wednesday, both running back Kam Pettway and defensive lineman Jeff Holland announced that they will be leaving The Plains early and entering the NFL draft. Pettway’s decision in particular is not surprising as he is married with a two-year-old daughter, while Holland enjoyed a breakout 2017 campaign that catapulted him into the draftable discussion.The Auburn family will always have a special place in my heart. I want to thank you all for a wonderful four years. War Eagle!
A post shared by Kam Pettway (@_bigsavage) on
泥 thanks for the year of mud pic.twitter.com/jtQWjqrvQy
— 先生 泥 (@holland_jeffery) January 4, 2018
Entering 2017, Holland had totaled 5.5 tackles for loss and three sacks. This season, Holland was credited with 13 tackles for loss and 10 sacks, with both totals leading the team.
Pettway ran for 1,224 yards in 2016, leading the SEC in rushing yards per game, and earned first-team All-SEC honors. Because of a combination of a suspension and injuries, Pettway missed a total of nine games this season, limiting him to just 305 yards on the ground. Pettway’s struggles led to a career season for Kerryon Johnson, who ran for 1,391 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Johnson is one of four Tigers who have declared early, the other being first-team All-SEC cornerback Carlton Davis.