Mizzou tight end Albert Okwuegbunam declares for NFL, leaves one year early
Missouri Tigers tight end Albert Okwuegbunam is headed to the NFL, forgoing his final year of eligibility, he announced on Twitter on Monday. He joins defensive tackle Jordan Elliott as the second Mizzou player who plans to declare early for the NFL Draft.
“I’m beyond thankful for my experiences at this outstanding University. I’ve learned so much about the game of football and life over these past 4 years,” Okwuegbunam wrote on Twitter. “Through trail and triumph these experiences undoubtedly molded me in to the player/man I am today. I am extremely thankful for all my coaches throughout my career so far and their everlasting impact on and off the field.
“But most importantly I am thankful for my brothers and the extremely tight bonds I’ve formed over these years. Through the ups and downs we’ve always stayed solid and supported each other when at times it felt no one else was and I can’t thoroughly express the gratitude I’ll always have for that.”
Okwuegbunam, a preseason All-American, broke out during the 2017 season when he caught 11 touchdown passes. A shoulder injury against Florida last season knocked him out for the year, potentially keeping him from leaving for the draft earlier.
“Ever since the first time I put on a helmet and shoulder pads, playing in the NFL has been my dream. God-wiling I’ve been blessed with this opportunity and I have decided to embark on that journey now,” Okwuegbunam said. “I will forgo my last year of eligibility and declare for the 2020 NFL Draft. I’m excited for what the future holds but will always be thankful to Missouri.”
The 6-foot-5 tight end finished with 26 catches for 306 yards and six touchdowns in 2019. He had a strong start to the season, but struggled down the stretch, much like the Mizzou offense. He also dealt with a shoulder injury that kept him out of the Tennessee game.
The next step for Okwuegbunam is the NFL Combine, which takes places Feb. 24-March 2. The NFL Draft is from April 23-25 in Paradise, Nevada. Okwuegbunam has been considered a potential first round pick.