Oklahoma DB Jefferson, WR Stills to declare for NFL draft

Being on the wrong end of a Cotton Bowl blowout to Texas A&M was not how Oklahoma wanted to end the 2012-13 season. Still, wide receiver Kenny Stills (pictured) and safety Tony Jefferson had stellar seasons and helped the Sooners to another 10-win season.

On the flip side, those efforts were good enough for Jefferson and Stills to declare for the NFL draft early. Reports of their departures surfaced this weekend, but OU made it official on Monday.

“We appreciate the contributions that Tony and Kenny have made during their time at Oklahoma,” coach Bob Stoops said in a statement. “We wish them both the best as they pursue their opportunities in the NFL.”

Suffice to say, their presence will be missed in 2013.

Stills was the team’s leading receiver with 82 catches for 959 yards and 11 touchdowns. He finishes his three-year career in Norman with 2,594 receiving yards and 24 touchdown catches. Jefferson, meanwhile, was the team’s leading tackler with 119 total tackles. He also had a pair of interceptions, three pass breakups and five passes defended on the year.

Updated 8:00 p.m. ET: Tony Jefferson and Kenny Stills have released statements on their decision to forego their final years of eligibility to try their luck in the NFL (courtesy of the Oklahoman)

From Stills:

To my Sooner Friends and Family,

I cannot begin to express how difficult it is to describe the emotions I have on this day as I announce that I will be entering the 2013 NFL draft. Becoming a player in the National Football League has been a lifelong dream and goal of mine that I feel I am now ready to make a reality. When I arrived in Norman three years ago, I could never have imagined the deep connection I would establish with such a warm community of people. Through the good and the bad, on such a large number of occasions, I have been humbled by the kindness of your hearts. As I get ready for the exciting next phase of my career, and recollect my time here in Norman, I feel it is important to express my appreciation to not only the fans, but also to all of the coaches and staff. I cannot thank you all enough for everything you have taught me and for the opportunities and support you have provided to me both on and off of the field. I will be forever grateful to The University of Oklahoma and can only hope my new colleagues will be as supportive and that the next stop on my journey is just as special.

From Jefferson:

My goodbye for now As I start my journey on to the next level Id like to thank the coaches, players, fans, and students at the University of Oklahoma. It’s been a dream that I didn’t even believe I was capable of dreaming. To attend an institution with such great people surrounding it makes me realize how blessed i was to come here. The coaches have had a huge impact in my life on and off the field i appreciate and owe it all to them for giving me the opportunity to showcase my abilities and not only making me a better player but essentially making me a better man. And to all the fans . I can’t express how much I love y’all . Y’all are committed and keep us players going when the growing gets tough. As this was one of the hardest decisions in my life I do have great faith in my future on and off the field because of all the love and support and guidance I have received at the university of Oklahoma. I will always live by the crimson cream , and continue to let every soul know , that there is only ONE Oklahoma ! Boomer sooner!