GT's Demaryius Thomas, USC's Joe McKnight Headed For NFL

NFL News - January 8th, 2010 - Written by John

College football underclassman have just under a week to announce their future intentions before being required to return to school, and two super stars have decided they will pursue careers in NFL Football.

ProFootballTalk reported Friday that Georgia Tech receiver Demaryius Thomas and USC running back Joe McKnight will leave school after just three years.

"This was a difficult decision for me because I love Georgia Tech and Atlanta," Thomas said. "But, after talking it over with my family, we felt like it was time to move on to the next level.

"I want to thank Coach (Paul) Johnson and all the (assistant) coaches for all that they have done for me. He has been straight-up with me from the beginning and I will always appreciate that."

Thomas spent most of his career blocking for the triple option, and rarely had the opportunity to show off his freakish ability in his junior year. But he made the most of it, averaging over 25 yards per catch in '09, and managed to make the All-ACC first team, and All-America third team.

McKnight told reporters that the main reason for his departure was to ensure his safety before making the big bucks, and that his only reason to return would be "to pursue the Heisman."

"The time is right," McKnight said. "This was my first healthy season and I really don't want to come back and risk injury."

He may also be leaving to avoid the cloud of speculation that would assuredly be waiting for him next year. He was the center of a probe at the end of this season when it was alleged that he was receiving benefits from an agent. He was seen driving an expensive SUV several times on campus, but told reporters that it was his girlfriend's.

He leaves after becoming the first Trojan to reach 1,000 yards in a season since Reggie Bush in 2005, and joins teammate Stefan Johnson, who also said he will leave his final year of eligibility on the table.