Almost three months after suffering a neck/throat injury in a horrific weightlifting accident that nearly cost him his life -- and did cost him the remainder of the season -- running back Stafon Johnson has decided to forego an attempt at one more collegiate season and will make himself available for the NFL draft.
According to NFL.com, and citing Johnson’s uncle, the senior has already begun getting himself physically ready for the February NFL combine and has informed head coach Pete Carroll of his decision.
Because of the injury, Johnson would have been able to petition the NCAA for another year of eligibility, and it likely would’ve been a slam dunk for him to receive an extra season.
Kregg Anderson said his nephew is training with the hopes of being invited to the Senior Bowl in late January to prove to NFL teams that the injury is behind him and he can once again handle the rigors of competitive football.
Because of the injury, Johnson was limited to just four games and 157 yards this season, although he did have five touchdowns on the ground. For his career, the 21-year-old rushed for 1,552 yards and scored 19 touchdowns.
[Tip o’ the Hat: Orange County Register]