Ohio State wide receiver K.J. Hill is staying for his senior season.
He made the announcement via Twitter on Tuesday.
— KMFJ (@KayJayHill) January 8, 2019
Hill, who was projected to be selected in the middle rounds of the 2019 NFL draft if he declared, said in his statement he consulted with former Ohio State wide receiver Cris Carter in making his decision.
"I have decided to take one last ride with my brothers, my coaches and you, Buckeye Nation!" Hill said. "I'm ready to help lead us to another National Championship."
By staying at Ohio State for his fifth-year senior season, Hill also follows in the footsteps of Parris Campbell, Terry McLaurin and Johnnie Dixon, who were all fifth-year seniors this past year.
Now, with those three having completed their time with the program, Hill has the opportunity to be the star and leader of the Buckeyes' receiving corps in 2019, along with fellow seniors Austin Mack and Binjimen Victor.
“I feel I had a great season this season. If I was to leave, I would be leaving on a good note,” Hill said before the Rose Bowl, when he was still deciding whether he would declare for the NFL draft or stay for his senior season. “Then again, if I did come back next year, a lot can happen with more touches on the ball, being in the offense as a leader, potential captain. There's a lot that comes with it. There's a lot of potential.”
As a fourth-year junior this past season, Hill caught 68 passes for 865 yards and six touchdowns – all career-highs – and he has the potential to put up even bigger numbers in 2019.
While Hill split time with Campbell at slot receiver last season, he projects to be the clear-cut starter at the position in 2019, though candidates to rotate with him at that spot could include C.J. Saunders, Jaelen Gill and Demario McCall.
