Gholston to enter NFL Draft

mohawkbaseball#1 · Post by **mohawkbaseball#1** » Sat Jan 12, 2008 12:22 am

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- If Ohio State is to make a run for a third-straight appearance in the BCS championship game next season, some familiar stars will be there to help the cause.

Who's decided to leave college before their senior season to enter the NFL draft? Here's the list.

Brian Robiskie, the Buckeyes' top receiver, and star cornerback Malcom Jenkins will both return for their senior seasons. Jenkins' decision to return was reported by ESPN's Joe Schad.

However, the Buckeyes will lose defensive end Vernon Gholston, who told Schad he will enter the NFL draft. Additionally, Jenkins said linebacker James Laurinaitis and linebacker Marcus Freeman are torn about returning to Ohio State or entering the NFL draft, Schad reported.

"It's time to take care of my family. It's time to let my teammates shine," Gholston said. "They say I'm a second-rounder. But what I bring is versatility. At 265 pounds I can add or lose weight. I can be a rush end and a linebacker. One thing I've never had a problem doing is beating blockers.

"As a son and as a man, it is my duty to serve and support my family to the best of my abilities. My childhood dream was, and still is, to one day be fortunate enough to do just that. I feel that time has come.''

Gholston surpassed Mike Vrabel's single-season school record with 14 sacks and was eighth on the team with 37 tackles.

Robiskie said there's still a lot he wants to accomplish in college, including winning a national championship. The Buckeyes were defeated 38-24 by LSU in this season's BCS title game and lost the 2006 national championship game to Florida, 41-14.

Robiskie had 55 catches for 935 yards, and his 11 touchdowns were tied for fourth-highest in Ohio State history.

The 20-year-old son of former Cleveland Browns interim head coach Terry Robiskie had been mentioned as one of the juniors who could leave early for the NFL. Members of Robiskie's class must declare their draft intentions by Tuesday.

Jenkins, who had 47 tackles and four interceptions, said winning the Jim Thorpe Award is one of his goals next season. The award is given annually to the nation's top defensive back.

"What's important to me is accomplishing more. I want to win the Thorpe. I want to be a first-team All-American," Jenkins said. "I want to win a national championship. I want to experience a senior season. You can't put a price tag on that. To be paid to play football is just a benefit. I'm not ready to transition to the next stage of my life yet."

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft08/n ... id=3192411
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buckeye21 · Post by **buckeye21** » Sat Jan 12, 2008 9:09 am

Not a big surprise with Gholston leaving but I am shocked that Malcolm Jenkins is coming back. That is huge to have a playmaker come back but I believe it is even bigger for the leadership that he brings to the table. Hopefully Laurinaitis, Freeman, and Alex Boone follow Jenkins and Robo's decisions.

buckeye21 · Post by **buckeye21** » Sat Jan 12, 2008 9:41 am

Gholston Heads To NFL
Defensive end enters name in NFL draft

COLUMBUS , Ohio
All-America defensive end Vernon Gholston has entered his name into the 2008 National Football League draft, head coach Jim Tressel announced this afternoon.

A statement from Gholston:

"It is with profound emotion, yet great anticipation, that I announce my decision to forgo my senior year of collegiate eligibility as a member of the Ohio State football team and enter the 2008 National Football League draft. I reached this conclusion through strategic meditation with my close family, coaches and teammates. The decision to enter the 2008 NFL draft will best serve our interests and future.

"As a son and as a man, it is my duty to serve and support my family to the best of my abilities. My childhood dream was, and still is, to one day be fortunate enough to do just that. I feel that time has come.

"As a member of the Ohio State football team and a brother to my teammates, it is my obligation to support and help them as much as possible. My departure will give them a chance to step up as leaders, to grow as players and to achieve their goals just as I have been able to do.

"As for me, it has always been my goal to compete and succeed at the highest level of my profession. The National Football League is just that, and I now feel prepared to embark upon this task. It's been through blessings, hard work, dedication and the help and support of so many others that I have been given this opportunity to do so.

"I certainly want to express my gratitude and infinite thanks to all who have supported and helped me reach this point. First, I thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who has given me everything. Next, I thank my family for their unfaltering support and love throughout my life; my teammates past and present, whom I cherish as brothers; and my coaches, who gave me opportunities and believed in my abilities. I thank you not only for developing me as an athlete, but for guiding the growth of my character as a person.

"I want to thank all my supporters and advisors for their knowledge and guidance; The Ohio State University for its commitment to excellence and for molding me into a man. Lastly, to our fans, Go Bucks!

"As I enter the 2008 NFL draft, my journey as an Ohio State football player comes to an end, but my passion and pride as a Buckeye will live forever. My time at The Ohio State University has connected me with so many great people and memories; I will remember and cherish them for the rest of my life.

"It has been a privilege serving this University. My only request is to be remembered as a fierce competitor and an unselfish teammate who put Ohio State and the team goals above my own every day I was here. I love you all. Thanks."

Gholston, a Detroit native, earned Big Ten defensive lineman of the year honors for the nation's top-ranked defense. A first team all-Big Ten and second team All-America defender, he was a finalist for the Ted Hendricks Award, setting Ohio State records for sacks in a season (14) and game (4).

The National Football League draft will be held April 26-27, 2008, in New York City . January 15 is the deadline for players to declare their early entry into the draft.

For updated information on Ohio State football, go to The Ohio State Buckeyes Official Athletics Site - OhioStateBuckeyes.com.

Brutus8907 · Post by **Brutus8907** » Sat Jan 12, 2008 11:34 am

that really sucks, gholston was probably the best player we had this. but after reading buckeye21's article i can understand why, good luck to him at the next level.

Orestes · Post by **Orestes** » Sat Jan 12, 2008 4:25 pm

Wells is the best player IMO. A lot of LSU fans felt he was the best player on the field for either team on Monday.

LICKING COUNTY FAN · Post by **LICKING COUNTY FAN** » Sat Jan 12, 2008 4:27 pm

He is the only Buckeye Jr. I thought should leave because I.M.O. he is the only one really ready.

Orestes · Post by **Orestes** » Sat Jan 12, 2008 4:32 pm

Apparently JL was told he'd be a top 15 pick in his draft analysis. I think his DTs got him in a lot of trouble this year, but he worked through it.

I'm still hoping he comes back for another run, but OSU is loaded at LB.

LICKING COUNTY FAN · Post by **LICKING COUNTY FAN** » Sat Jan 12, 2008 4:43 pm

I really think JL needs to come back.
He dominates against the bad teams and does very little in the big, big games.

buckeye21 · Post by **buckeye21** » Sat Jan 12, 2008 11:30 pm

newarkcatholicfan wrote:I really think JL needs to come back.
He dominates against the bad teams and does very little in the big, big games.

Yeah you're right. 18 tackles in the National Championship is weak. He should have had at least 30 tackles! :roll:

LICKING COUNTY FAN · Post by **LICKING COUNTY FAN** » Sun Jan 13, 2008 3:24 am

buckeye21 wrote:
newarkcatholicfan wrote:I really think JL needs to come back.
He dominates against the bad teams and does very little in the big, big games.

Yeah you're right. 18 tackles in the National Championship is weak. He should have had at least 30 tackles!

He had 18 tackles in game against LSU? If so they were quiet tackles meaning no big plays in the big big game.

ballparent · Post by **ballparent** » Sun Jan 13, 2008 9:58 am

buckeye21 wrote:
newarkcatholicfan wrote:I really think JL needs to come back.
He dominates against the bad teams and does very little in the big, big games.

Yeah you're right. 18 tackles in the National Championship is weak. He should have had at least 30 tackles!

He was credited with 12 solo tackles and 6 assists, but I'm like NCF and feel he needs and hope he comes back. He gets a lot of attention because of who he is and is a great player but sometimes seems to turn the intensity off. His father wants him to go and Mom's not saying, he says he's torn on what to do, that seems obvious since he hasn't declared yet.
He has to declare by Tuesday so we'll know soon enough. I'm just tickled we get Robiskie and Jenkins back.

On another note Schoenhoft seems to be transferring:
Schoenhoft reportedly will visit Delaware
Sunday, January 13, 2008 3:43 AM
From staff and wire reports
A week after expressing disappointment at being demoted to third string, Ohio State quarterback Rob Schoenhoft reportedly is visiting Delaware with the intent to transfer.

The Wilmington (Del.) News Journal reported Schoenhoft was expected to visit Delaware this weekend. The Blue Hens play in the Football Championship Subdivision, meaning Schoenhoft could play there immediately. As a third-year sophomore, he would have two seasons of eligibility.

Attempts to reach him yesterday were unsuccessful.

Schoenhoft was the backup to starter Todd Boeckman last season, but Antonio Henton was looking impressive in early-season games until he was suspended.

Schoenhoft played in seven games, completing 17 of 25 passes for 129 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. He rushed 10 times for 32 yards and a TD.

During preparations for the national championship game, coaches moved Schoenhoft to tight end and promoted Henton to second team. They called it a temporary move.

"I was a little upset and disappointed," Schoenhoft said Jan. 5. "The past couple weeks have been tough.

"I thought I did really well (during the season), actually. I was prepared enough to take over for Todd if anything happened. â€¦ I think my level of play proved it, too, so whatever happens, happens."

Quarterbacks coach Joe Daniels said he thought Schoenhoft was prepared to compete for the backup job in spring practice.

"He's a pretty mature kid, and I think he understood what the whole grand scheme was," Daniels said. "I think for the most part he did a nice job (and) accepted it."

-- Ken Gordon [email protected]

YOU'RE TIGER BAIT · Post by **YOU'RE TIGER BAIT** » Sun Jan 13, 2008 12:20 pm

I HOPE THEY ALL STAY. I HOPE TRESS CAN INSTILL IN THEM, TO GET THEIR DEGREES , AND HAVE ANOTHER SHOT AT THE BIG GAME. BUT TRESS NEEDS TO EVOLVE SOME AS WELL.

LICKING COUNTY FAN · Post by **LICKING COUNTY FAN** » Sun Jan 13, 2008 2:19 pm

I like Schoenhoft but never thought he was ready for Ohio State football and this was after watching him several times in high school. If he had come from a school who threwe a little(more) than he did in high school I think he could have been the QB at State.

buckeye21 · Post by **buckeye21** » Sun Jan 13, 2008 4:58 pm

newarkcatholicfan wrote:He had 18 tackles in game against LSU?

Yes he had 18. Here is the link:
http://ohiostatebuckeyes.com/fls/17300/stats/football/2007/13lsu.htm

gahs4ever wrote:Tackles 8-10 yards beyond the line of scrimmage arent that impressive.

Actually he made alot of tackles on 3-5 yard runs by Hester and the other backs. JL didn't do anything impressive in the game but at least he was consistent on making tackles unlike some of the other players. I believe he would benefit by playing another year. AJ Hawk did and I feel that AJ was much better after his junior year than JL is right now. Hopefully he stays but I wouldn't be shocked to see him go.

LICKING COUNTY FAN · Post by **LICKING COUNTY FAN** » Sun Jan 13, 2008 5:04 pm

buckeye21 wrote:
newarkcatholicfan wrote:He had 18 tackles in game against LSU?

Yes he had 18. Here is the link:
http://ohiostatebuckeyes.com/fls/17300/stats/football/2007/13lsu.htm

gahs4ever wrote:Tackles 8-10 yards beyond the line of scrimmage arent that impressive.

Actually he made alot of tackles on 3-5 yard runs by Hester and the other backs. JL didn't do anything impressive in the game but at least he was consistent on making tackles unlike some of the other players. I believe he would benefit by playing another year. AJ Hawk did and I feel that AJ was much better after his junior year than JL is right now. Hopefully he stays but I wouldn't be shocked to see him go.

Thanks.Like I said it was a quiet 18. By no means do I mean this to be a disrespect thing toward J.L. I think he is good but would be better by staying and working on his game.

ballparent · Post by **ballparent** » Sun Jan 13, 2008 6:02 pm

Looks like Boone will be back.

January 13, 2008 5:55 PM (Evanston, Illinois)

Football: At least three media outlets including The Cleveland Plain Dealer, The Columbus Dispatch, and WBNS Television, are reporting that OSU junior offensive tackle Alex Boone will return to the Buckeyes for his senior season and will not enter the NFL draft.
Ohio State has not as yet issued a statement.
Ohio State football
Boone says he'll be back
'It just feels right'
Sunday, January 13, 2008 5:18 PM
By Tim May

THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Ohio State left tackle Alex Boone said this afternoon that he plans to return for his senior season, leaving just one big question mark about the 2008 Buckeyes: Will linebacker James Laurinaitis return or go to the NFL?

Boone said he chose to return "just because it doesn't feel right to leave right now."

The 6-foot-8, 320-pound junior said that in the hours after the Buckeyes' second straight loss in the national championship game, 38-24 to LSU last Monday night, he thought seriously about leaving because "I was feeling pretty bitter."

"But the whole time I think I knew I wasn't going," Boone said. "It just feels right to come back. I could use another year under my belt, which should help me get ready even more for the NFL.

"And I'd like to take another chance at winning the national championship, and personally, take another chance at winning the Outland Trophy."

Laurinaitis, the winner of the 2007 Butkus Award, reportedly might wait until Tuesday, the deadline for underclassmen to declare for the April draft, before making up his mind.

Thus far, only one Buckeye has decided to leave early, junior defensive Vernon Gholston, the Big Ten defensive lineman of the year.

Linebacker Marcus Freeman said that nine days ago he planned to return, admitted to some second thoughts immediately after the national title game, then this weekend repeated his intention to return to OSU for his senior season.

[email protected]

buckeye21 · Post by **buckeye21** » Sun Jan 13, 2008 10:58 pm

newarkcatholicfan wrote:
buckeye21 wrote:
newarkcatholicfan wrote:He had 18 tackles in game against LSU?

Yes he had 18. Here is the link:
http://ohiostatebuckeyes.com/fls/17300/stats/football/2007/13lsu.htm

gahs4ever wrote:Tackles 8-10 yards beyond the line of scrimmage arent that impressive.

Actually he made alot of tackles on 3-5 yard runs by Hester and the other backs. JL didn't do anything impressive in the game but at least he was consistent on making tackles unlike some of the other players. I believe he would benefit by playing another year. AJ Hawk did and I feel that AJ was much better after his junior year than JL is right now. Hopefully he stays but I wouldn't be shocked to see him go.
Thanks.Like I said it was a quiet 18. By no means do I mean this to be a disrespect thing toward J.L. I think he is good but would be better by staying and working on his game.

So we agree then. ;-)

Orestes · Post by **Orestes** » Sun Jan 13, 2008 11:20 pm

So...

Gholston = gone

Freeman, Jenkins, Robo, and Boone = back

JL= ????? (rumors are that he will return as well....)

That would be 18 starters back, plus the addition of Curtis Terry, Lawrence Wilson, and Ross Homan who all either started or played in the regular rotation in 2006. They were out due to injuries. Also, only 2 more seniors were in the entire two-deep, which is 40+ top guys coming back.

buckeye21 · Post by **buckeye21** » Mon Jan 14, 2008 9:45 am

Orestes wrote:So...

Gholston = gone

Freeman, Jenkins, Robo, and Boone = back

JL= ????? (rumors are that he will return as well....)

That would be 18 starters back, plus the addition of Curtis Terry, Lawrence Wilson, and Ross Homan who all either started or played in the regular rotation in 2006. They were out due to injuries. Also, only 2 more seniors were in the entire two-deep, which is 40+ top guys coming back.

Is it September yet??

Orestes · Post by **Orestes** » Mon Jan 14, 2008 12:45 pm

buckeye21 wrote:
Orestes wrote:So...

Gholston = gone

Freeman, Jenkins, Robo, and Boone = back

JL= ????? (rumors are that he will return as well....)

That would be 18 starters back, plus the addition of Curtis Terry, Lawrence Wilson, and Ross Homan who all either started or played in the regular rotation in 2006. They were out due to injuries. Also, only 2 more seniors were in the entire two-deep, which is 40+ top guys coming back.

Is it September yet??

haha. Well, it won't be long until the spring game, and there will be several true freshmen their who left school early. It should be a fun spring game to watch.