Sunday, January 11, 2009

Paul Kruger is going to the NFL for certain and sources say Sean Smith is expected to announce the same decision. I've got Kruger's official statement below. Not surprisingly he is extremely excited to see how he'll do at the next level. I know his one disappointment in the Sugar Bowl was not being able to play against Alabama's Outland Trophy winner, Andre Smith because he wanted to test himself against the best. Needless to say he's going to be tested a lot in the future!
Here is Kruger's official statement:
“I am issuing this statement after much prayer, consideration, and evaluation with my family in announcing that I have decided to forgo my final years of eligibility and enter the 2009 NFL draft. 
 
This past year I have been honored to be a part of this very special group of teammates and coaches at the UNIVERSITY of UTAH.  I have cherished what has been my amazing college experience.   Finishing this 2008 football season undefeated and having the privilege to get to play under someone as special as coach Kyle Whittingham has been a lifelong dream fulfilled.  Now it is my journey to pursue another lifelong dream which is to become a professional football player in the National Football League.
 
This decision is one of the toughest that I have ever had to make. As I reflect on the UNIVERSITY of UTAH, my teammates, all of my coaches, the football staff and most importantly the UTES fans… I am filled with humility and deep gratitude. These past years at UTAH have been a tremendous learning and growing experience for me.  I want to thank everyone at the University and all the UTES everywhere for their support.
 
It is my hope in making this decision that the fans, coaches, teammates, and the UTAH athletic department will continue to support me and my family as I take this next step in attaining my goals.
 
My heart belongs to UTAH. And I wish continued prosperity and success to my UTAH UTES! “