Oregon Ducks QB Marcus Mariota Officially Declares for the NFL Draft (shocker)

When the media asked Marcus Mariota what his plans were shortly after the Oregon Ducks had lost the national championship game to Ohio State he gave the answer you would expect--it was the last thing on his mind at that moment. He's had some time to clear his head and think about what he wants to do next now, and it appears he has made a decision.

Marcus Mariota will skip his final year at Oregon and enter the NFL Draft.

via Bleacher Report

Mariota made the announcement in the following release:

"After meeting with my family I have decided to forego my final year of eligibility and apply for the 2015 NFL Draft," Mariota said. "My four years at the University of Oregon have been an awesome experience. I cannot thank Coach Kelly, Coach Helfrich, Coach Frost, the rest of the Oregon coaches and the support staff enough for molding me as a person, player and student-athlete.

"The support I received from the University, the city of Eugene and Duck fans has been tremendous. I will always remember the great times and support I received. Once a Duck always a Duck. I will miss being with my teammates. Being a part of this team was something special that I will always treasure."

The question now is whether Tampa Bay is going to make him the No. 1 pick or if they will go with the previous Heisman winner instead.

[ESPN]

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