Nebraska defensive end Randy Gregory has announced his intentions to enter the 2015 NFL draft, according to Josina Anderson of ESPN. Gregory released a statement expressing gratitude to his coaches at Nebraska.
"As I declare for this year's NFL draft, I'm ready for the next challenge in my life," Gregory said. "I look forward to the coaching I will receive and the chance to push myself alongside the best players in the world. Thank you to my coaches from all levels, the Nebraska fans, my teammates, and my family who have supported me from the start."
Gregory, a junior, racked up 54 tackles and seven sacks in 10 games for Nebraska this season. He recorded 9.5 sacks as a sophomore last year. Gregory is viewed as one of the best pass rushers in the nation, and is currently projected to be selected fourth overall by the Oakland Raiders in Todd McShay's first mock draft at ESPN.com.
Here is what McShay said of Gregory:
"The Raiders need an edge rusher, and the presence of Gregory and Khalil Mack along the same front seven would create problems for opposing offensive lines for seasons to come...Gregory has the length to be a better fit as a 4-3 defensive end. He needs to add strength to succeed in the NFL, as right now he is lean and can get pushed around a bit against the run. But he is a very good pass-rusher with his lateral quickness and closing speed."
The 22-year-old is currently listed at 6-6 and 245 pounds. Elite 4-3 defensive ends, such as Mario Williams and Robert Quinn, weigh upwards of 265 pounds. Still, Gregory's natural ability to disrupt opposing backfields will be enough to get him drafted early in round one.
