Like many sports pundits speculated last week, Jameis Winston’s cemetary-worthy Rose Bowl is to be his last game at Florida State University.
The controversial–yet talented–Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback is forgoing his two remaining years of eligibility and entering this year’s NFL draft.
Winston’s father, Antonor, tells ESPN that his son made the gametime decision just “last night” after receiving first-round grade from the NFL draft advisory committee.
Winston has already “agented up” and through The Legacy Agency, he released a statement fully outlining his reasoning to turn pro.
“After weighing this decision with my family and friends, I have decided to declare for the 2015 NFL draft and forgo my remaining eligibility at Florida State. I reached this very difficult decision after careful consideration and long thought, realizing how difficult it would be to say goodbye to my family at Florida State. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to wear the garnet and gold and have greatly enjoyed my time as a Seminole, both as an athlete and a student in the classroom.
“I will always take pride in leading our team back to national prominence and am confident that my returning teammates will continue the success for many years to come.
“To the fans, I can’t thank you enough for the support you showed me and the team over the last three seasons; it was a humbling experience to bring the Championship back to Tallahassee for you all to enjoy.
“To my teammates, it’s been an incredible opportunity to play with the most impressive collection of talent and people the game has seen; you all have been there for me through the highs and lows and the relationships we have formed extend well beyond the field. For this, I thank you.
“To the coaching staff and especially Coach Fisher, I am forever grateful for the ways you developed me as a player and a person as I have grown over the years. I knew I made the right decision to come to Florida State four years ago and couldn’t be happier with this choice as I write this today.
“As I embark in the next challenge of playing in the NFL, I look forward to contributing to a long line of successful alumni at the next level. I want you all to know that I will make Seminole Nation proud and continue to bring the passion and love for the game you all have seen in Doak Campbell since my first day as a ‘Nole. Thank you for making my time in Tallahassee some of the best years of my life.”
Let us know if you feel the maturity is present for a Jameis Winston NFL career to thrive in the comment section below.
Reigning Heisman Trophy winner Marcus Mariota is also expected to turn pro following Monday’s National Championship game.
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Photo: ACC Digital Network
