OU's Gerald McCoy Headed to NFL Draft

Originally Published: Dec 18, 2009 11:37 AM CDT

Stephany Speck
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

OKLAHOMA CITY -- OU’s Gerald McCoy announced Friday he plans to enter the 2010 NFL Draft.

The Sooners’ defensive tackle has earned numerous awards and recognition while at OU, including being named All-American twice, along with a consensus pick this season.

McCoy has 80 career tackles, including 13.5 sacks and 32 tackles for loss. He set a school record for defensive tackles while at OU and has started 39 consecutive games.

The junior said he plans to participate in graduation ceremonies and complete his Human Relations degree in the spring semester.

“I made the decision around mid-season when I knew that I would have enough credits to graduate,” McCoy said. “Graduation was my main goal and once I knew I had that accomplished, I wanted to look at playing in the NFL.

“I loved my experience at OU and I’m going to miss it. I accomplished almost everything I wanted to get done here and it has been very positive with my teammates, the coaches, the fans, everyone.”

McCoy said his decision to enter the draft will not impact his focus as the Sooners head into the 2009 Brut Sun Bowl Dec. 31.

The game against Stanford will be the last time McCoy will suit up as a Sooner.

“We have a big game to win and for now I am a Sooner,” McCoy said.

Head coach Bob Stoops had only positive things to say about the junior’s choice to enter the draft. Stoops recognized McCoy’s dedication to his duties both on the field and off.

“Gerald is a great example of how to be a student-athlete,” said Stoops. “He came here, took care of his academic responsibilities, invested himself in the lives of others and had a great career on the field. I’ve never been associated with a young man who was any more impressive than Gerald.

“He is extremely mature, and that fact, along with what he has done academically, makes this decision to enter the draft a good one for him.”

Oklahoma Sports will be present at the Sun Bowl on New Year ’s Eve. Until then, Sooner fans can get all the bowl information they need at the Oklahoma Sports Bowling Alley-- You’re guide to both bowl games.