Baylor football has become the latest Power Five program to feel the sting of an early loss.
“After much prayer and discussing my future with my family and coaches,” James Lynch wrote on Twitter, “I have decided to chase my next dream and that is playing in the National Football League.” A three-star 2017 signee, the defensive lineman is leaving a year of eligibility on the table.
“Choosing Baylor was the best decision of my life,” Lynch continued. “Receiving an education and playing football at this great university are easily some of my biggest blessings.
“My brothers and I poured out heart and soul into Baylor football as we transformed this program into the toughest, most competitive and hardest working team in the country. I am so proud of what we accomplished, going from 1-11 to 11-3 in three seasons. I am forever honored to be a part of this program.”
Thank you Baylor nation!✌🏻 pic.twitter.com/X7gRHbySHH
— James Lynch (@JamesHusker38) January 13, 2020
A two-time first-team All-Big 12 selection, Lynch led the conference in sacks with 13½. He was second in tackles for loss with 19½. Following the 2019 regular season, the 6-4, 295-pound lineman was named as the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. In 2017, he earned Freshman All-American honors.
Lynch will finish his collegiate career with 33½ tackles for loss and 22 sacks. He was also credited with seven passes defensed, three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.