Utah DE Joe Kruger To Enter 2013 NFL Draft
By Josh Sanchez
Utah Utes defensive end Joe Kruger will be joining his older brother in the NFL — Joe’s older brother, Paul, currently plays for the Baltimore Ravens. Following down the family path, Kruger has decided to enter the 2013 NFL Draft.
Kruger announced his decision with a detailed statement on his thought process.
"“I am releasing this statement after much prayer, consideration and evaluation with my family in announcing that I have decided to forgo my final year of eligibility and enter the 2013 NFL draft.“These past three years, I have been honored to be a part of a very special group of teammates and coaches at the University of Utah. I have cherished what has been my amazing college experience. The privilege to play under someone as great as Coach Kyle Whittingham has been a tremendous opportunity. The experience of playing together with my brother Dave has been priceless. Now it is my journey to pursue a lifelong dream, which is to become a professional football player in the National Football League.“This decision is one of the toughest that I have ever had to make. As I reflect on the University of Utah, my teammates, all of my coaches, the football staff, and most importantly the Utah fans, I am filled with humility and deep gratitude. These past years at Utah have been a tremendous learning and growing experience for me. I want to thank everyone at the University and all the Utes everywhere for their support.“It is my hope in making this decision that the fans, coaches, teammates, and the Utah athletic department will continue to support me and my family as I take this next step in attaining my goals.“My heart belongs to Utah and I wish continued prosperity and success to my Utah Utes!”"
Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham released a much shorter statement to wish his defensive end well at the next level.
“Joe and his family spent a lot of time making this decision and concluded that it’s in Joe’s best interest to forego his senior year of eligibility and enter the draft,” Whittingham said. “Joe certainly has NFL potential and we wish him the best as he takes his game to the next level. The Kruger name has been synonymous with Utah football for a lot of years and we are very appreciative for all they have done for our program.”
In 2012, Kruger’s six sacks were enough to lead the Utes.