As expected, Brian Hartline has opted to try his luck in the NFL and will forgo his senior season at Ohio State. He released a statement announcing his decision today:
“I am thrilled to declare my eligibility for the National Football League draft.
“Everyone involved within The Ohio State University football program has done a tremendous job for me. I want to thank all of them, particularly Coach Tressel, for helping me to succeed as both a student and an athlete during my time here.
“I would especially like to thank the media and the fans of Ohio for being great to me and to my family throughout my career.
“I have had an outstanding experience at OSU and am thankful for the support I continue to receive. I now look forward to testing myself against the top competitors in the National Football League.”
While you never want to see anyone leave early, this move probably won't surprise anyone with Hartline getting married in May and graduating in June.
Another junior announced his intentions for 2009 today and this time, the Buckeyes got some good news as safety Kurt Coleman is returning for his senior season.
“After a lot of thought and study, I have decided to remain at Ohio State for the 2009 season to complete my degree and my college football career.
“I am extremely blessed to be in the position where these opportunities are possible, and I’m very grateful for the support of my family, my teammates and the Ohio State community.
“My decision to come back is a lot about helping this team. I feel we can do anything next year. We have a lot of great leaders coming back and an excellent group of underclass talent. For me personally, my family and I felt this was the best decision for me, to make my career at Ohio State even better than it has already been.
“I have a lot to prove to myself and a lot of things I want to accomplish. With one more year here, I can attain all those goals.
Amen. And now we wait on Washington.
