Athletic Department
University of Oregon
January 17, 2008
EUGENE, Ore. – Oregon junior rover Patrick Chung has withdrawn his name from NFL draft consideration, opting to return for his senior season.
Chung, a second-team All-America and the Ducks’ leading tackler in 2007, had filed paperwork earlier this week with the NFL as a precautionary measure before arriving at his final decision. He had until Friday to opt out.
“I love our fans, I love our coaches, and I love the atmosphere here,” Chung said. “How could I leave? Once I have earned my degree, I will pursue my dream of playing in the NFL. I would like to thank our fans for their support.”
Chung would have become the second UO underclassman from the 2007 squad to enter the NFL draft, joining teammate Jonathan Stewart, who declared last week. He is one of two current juniors, along with offensive lineman Max Unger, to start all 38 games Oregon has played since 2005.
The Ducks begin spring practice April 2.
Tags: Ducks, Football, oregon, Patrick Chung