Clemson DT to forgo senior season for NFL

Lawrence is regarded as a top-10 pick in the 2019 draft.

by TigerNet Staff - Wed Jan 09 16:09:47 GMT-04:00 2019

Clemson All-American defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence declared for the NFL draft on Wednesday, via social media.

"I have given Clemson all I have," Lawrence said. "Through prayers and conversations with my family, I believe that my next step in life is to forgo my senior season and enter the 2019 NFL Draft."

Regarded as a top-10 first-round NFL selection, Lawrence earned first-team All-ACC honors with 44 tackles (7.5 for loss), three pass breakups, 1.5 sacks, a fumble recovery, a blocked kick and a rushing touchdown this season.

Lawrence had a tough close to his career after being one of three Tigers to test for trace amounts of an NCAA-banned substance, which forced him to miss both of Clemson's Playoff games.

A former five-star prospect, Lawrence earned All-American honors in 2017 and freshman All-American honors in 2016.

"I don't even know where to begin right now," Lawrence said to start his social media statement. "Clemson has been a true blessing for me these past three years. I have accomplished the three things I wanted the most: to grow as a man, to grow spiritually, and to become a better football player. I'm also thankful for all the coaches and support staff, my teammates, my brothers for life, and the friendships and connections that I have made during my time here. I'm thankful for my professors, and I'm thankful for the fans. You are the best fans in the world for the support you have given me and for helping me achieve these goals...Thank you for all that you have given me and I ask for your continued prayers and support as I enter the next phase of my life."

Forever a Clemson Tiger??! #AllIn #2xChamps #ClemsonFamily #Pterodactyl pic.twitter.com/Iz91sIR3mD
— Dexter Lawrence II (@llawrence2139) January 9, 2019