Michigan State Trio Headed For 2013 NFL Draft

Dec. 29, 2012; Tempe, AZ, USA; Michigan State Spartans defensive end and defensive player of the game William Gholston (left) celebrates with offensive player of the game running back Le’Veon Bell (right). Mandatory Photo Credit: US PRESSWIRE

A trio of Michigan State Spartans will be heading to the next level. Running back Le’Veon Bell, defensive end William Gholston and tight end Dion Sims have decided to enter the 2013 NFL Draft.

Bell and Lewis confirmed the news on Twitter:

As hard as it was to leave spartan nation, it was even harder to pass on such a great opportunity I have in front of me!

— LeVeon Bell (@L_Bell24) January 3, 2013

But I love and thank spartan nation for everything! I will always be a Spartan!

— LeVeon Bell (@L_Bell24) January 3, 2013

I want to thank #SpartanNation for 4 of the best years of my life! I’ll always bleed green & white!!!

— Dion Sims (@D_Sims80) January 3, 2013

Gholston announced his decision in a statement:

“After thinking everything over and talking to coach Dantonio, I knew it in my heart leaving for the NFL was the best decision for me,” Gholston told the website. “I want to thank everyone who helped me get to this point in my career and everything the entire Michigan State has done for me.”

A big factor in Gholston’s decision was the ability to support his young son.

“Every snap, every down and every step I take throughout life is for him,” Gholston said. “My son means everything to me because he is part of me in everything I do.”

Gholston is the most highly-touted of the Spartans prospects and could receive second-round consideration.