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Washington star receiver Rome Odunze and running back Dillon Johnson are declaring for the NFL Draft after prolific seasons, the pair told ESPN, with Odunze’s departure in particular signifying both a tremendous loss for the Huskies and a highly desired prospect for the next level. Odunze is expected to be one of the first receivers off the board in April after playing a key role in Washington’s emergence as a national power under coach Kalen DeBoer.
Though listed as a senior on Washinton’s roster, Odunze could have returned for a fifth season because of the extra year of eligibility provided by the COVID-19 pandemic. As Odunze shredded opposing defenses throughout the 2023 season, it became increasingly apparent that he likely has a bright professional future.
Odunze earned first-team All-America honors in 2023 and was a finalist for the Biletnikoff Award. His 92 receptions for 1,640 yards with 13 touchdowns made him the top target of Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. The Huskies’ pass offense ranked No. 1 nationally while fueling the team’s run to a Pac-12 championship and College Football Playoff National Championship appearance.
He is just the second player in Washington history to end his career with multiple 1,000-yard campaigns after he racked up 1,145 yards on 75 receptions in 2022.
Johnson, a productive Mississippi State transfer, bloomed into one of Washington’s late-season stars, highlighted by a career-best 256 yards and four touchdowns against USC. Though knee and nagging foot injuries rendered him largely ineffective at season’s end, Johnson showed willingness to play through the limitations and pain to end with a team-best 1,195 yards rushing and 16 touchdowns. He is not listed in CBS Sports’ Prospect…
Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/2024-nfl-draft-washington-wr-rome-odunze-rb-dillon-johnson-declare-after-helping-spark-playoff-run/
Author : David Cobb
Publish date : 2024-01-12 18:10:50
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