Maryland defensive tackle Randy Starks will enter the NFL Draft rather than return for his senior season.
Starks, who could be a late first-rounder, met yesterday’s deadline for underclassmen to declare for the April24 draft. An NFL panel of personnel directors recently projected Starks as a probable second-rounder, but said he might go late in the first. That was enough for Starks to forgo his final year.
Starks couldn’t be reached for comment, but recently said the possibility of being taken in the first round likely would prompt him to leave. Maryland lobbied Starks heavily in the last week to remain, including a two-hour meeting with coach Ralph Friedgen last Friday, arguing another standout year might propel Starks into the top 10 while preserving the Terrapins’ defensive line. Friedgen, who’s in Hawaii to coach tomorrow’s Hula Bowl, released a statement wishing Starks well.
“Randy was a force inside and was a big part of our success the past three seasons,” Friedgen said. “He will be missed and we hope the draft goes well for him in April.”
Starks, a persistent playmaker late in the season despite constant double teams, earned All-ACC honors after making 74 tackles, including 141/2 for a loss. His 171/2 career sacks, including 71/2 last season, were ninth all-time at Maryland.
ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper said Starks is a possible late first-rounder. Oklahoma’s Tommie Harris might be a top-10 pick, while Miami’s Vince Wilfork and Florida State’s Darnell Dockett also might be chosen ahead of Starks.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.