UtahProAthletes.com
University of Utah All-MWC defensive end Paul Kruger announced Sunday night that he will forgo his final two seasons at Utah and enter the NFL draft. Kruger said he made the decision to head to the NFL after much discussion with his family and praying about it.
Kruger said the decision to turn pro was difficult but he is ready for the challenge of competing at the next level. "I can't wait to get the whole training and everything going," Kruger said.
Kruger was recruited by Utah as an All-American quarterback out of Timpanogos High School in Orem, UT. Kruger elected to serve a 2-year LDS mission, and when he returned, he was moved to the defensive side of the ball as a defensive end.
He excelled quickly as a defensive end being named a Freshman All-American in 2007 after finishing with 63 tackles, leading all freshman linemen in the Mountain West Conference. Coming into the 2008 season, expectations were high for the 6-5, 215 pound sophmore. He lived up to the challenge finishing the season with 15.5 tackles for loss, ranking him 24th nationally, and tying for third in the conference with 7.5 sacks.
Kruger had a solid performance in Utah's 31-17 win over Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, perhaps raising his stock by NFL organizations. Kruger's excellent 2008 season and being on a Utah team that went 13-0 and finished No. 2 in the AP poll all factored into his decision.
"It was the whole season, everything collectively," he said. "It came down to a decision for me to do what was best for myself and my family."
"I am issuing this statement after much prayer, consideration and evaluation with my family in announcing that I have decided to forgo my final years of eligibility and enter the 2009 NFL Draft.
"This past year I have been honored to be a part of this very special group of teammates and coaches at the University of Utah. I have cherished what has been my amazing college experience.
"Finishing this 2008 football season undefeated and having the privilege to get to play under someone as special as coach Kyle Whittingham has been a lifelong dream fulfilled.
"Now it is my journey to pursue another lifelong dream which is to become a professional football player in the National Football League.
"This decision is one of the toughest that I have ever had to make. As I reflect on the University of Utah, my teammates, all of my coaches, the football staff and most importantly the Utes fans. . . I am filled with humility and deep gratitude. These past years at Utah have been a tremendous learning and growing experience for me. I want to thank everyone at the University and all the Utes everywhere for their support.
"It is my hope in making this decision that the fans, coaches, teammates, and the Utah athletic department will continue to support me and my family as I take this next step in attaining my goals.
"My heart belongs to Utah. And I wish continued prosperity and success to my Utah Utes!
Yours truly, Paul Kruger"
