Tis the season. College football’s top underclassmen are publicly declaring whether or not they’ll stay in school or choose to pursue a career in the NFL.
After being throttled by the Clemson Tigers in the Russell Athletic Bowl, the Oklahoma Sooners needed a bit of good news, and they got it.
Junior wide receiver Sterling Shepard announced on Twitter that he will stay in Norman for his senior season.I have decided to return for my senior year. Not only am I committed to the program I want that degree! The best is yet to come! #Boomer
— Sterling Shepard (@sterl_shep3) January 2, 2015
Shepard, a First-Team All-Big 12 selection, led Oklahoma in every major receiving category despite missing three games this season due to a groin injury he suffered during a contest against the Iowa State Cyclones. In 10 appearances, Shepard caught 51 passes for 970 yards and five touchdowns. However, the wide receiver was quiet during Oklahoma’s bowl game with only one reception for 13 yards.
Not only will the Sooners retain their top receiver, but it’s also in Shepard’s best interests. At 5-10 and 195 pounds, size and durability will be the primary concerns regarding Shepard as an NFL prospect. The junior was basically a non-factor over the second half of the season due to the injury. His ability to play a full season and continue to produce at a high level over the course of an entire season will only help his draft stock.
Shepard’s return shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, though. This year’s winner of Disney’s Spirit Award maintains a close relationship with Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops.
