BYU tackle Tait to enter NFL Draft
Posted: Monday January 04, 1999 03:25 PM
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Feel the draft: Tait has been projected as a high first-round pick Tom Hauck/Allsport |
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- John Tait, a junior offensive tackle at Brigham Young, announced Monday he will enter the NFL draft.
Tait was widely regarded as the Western Athletic Conference's best lineman during the past two seasons. A three-year starter for the Cougars, the 6-foot-7, 307-pound Tait has been projected as a high first-round pick in the April 17 draft.
"After much thought and deliberation, I made the decision to enter the draft," Tait said in a statement. "I am grateful to coach LaVell Edwards and [offensive line] coach Roger French for supporting me and preparing me for this next step in my football career."
Tait, a left tackle, ranks with Outland Trophy winner Mo Elewonibi as the best offensive linemen in BYU history. His departure, while expected by those close to the program, is another blow to the Cougars' football fortunes in the past three weeks.
On Dec. 16, running back Ronney Jenkins, the team's leading rusher during his two seasons at BYU, was suspended for violating the school's honor code. Jenkins was expelled from Brigham Young eight days later, and Tait joined several of his teammates in questioning the fairness of the school's disciplinary methods.
The Cougars lost the Liberty Bowl 41-27 to Tulane on Thursday in a sloppy performance. The next day, backup quarterback Drew Miller announced that Montana would be the destination of his long-rumored transfer.
Tait, who was twice named to the All-WAC first team, broke the news to Edwards on the team's flight home from the Liberty Bowl.
"John has been one of our most outstanding players at BYU," Edwards said. "He has been a great player and also an inspiring leader. We will miss him not coming back next season. However, he has our full support, and we wish him the very best. He is going to be a great NFL player."
Tait had said that his decision to turn pro would depend on his projected draft position. Draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. expects Tait to be the 10th overall selection, while Sports Illustrated projects him to be picked 12th.
Tait is a native of Tempe, Ariz. He was elected a team captain at the beginning of his junior season.
"I am leaving school early with no regrets," Tait said. "The years that I have spent at BYU have been some of the happiest of my life. I consider it an honor to have been associated with Brigham Young University and its outstanding football program."
Tait's roommate, junior linebacker Rob Morris, is also considering a jump to the NFL. Morris was the Cougars' leading tackler the last two seasons and was recently named the WAC Pacific Division defensive player of the year.
Jenkins may also turn pro. Underclassmen must notify the NFL of their intentions by Friday.
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