Following Michigan State’s dramatic comeback win over Baylor in Thursday’s Cotton Bowl, Spartans cornerback Trae Waynes confirmed to Mike Johnson of the Kenosha News that the game was his last with Michigan State. Waynes will be forgoing his final year of college eligibility and entering the 2015 NFL draft.
“I’m sure it’s kind of obvious,” Waynes said. “Yeah, I’m gonna go…. I pretty much already decided what that (decision’s) going to be with my family and the coaches and stuff like that.”
As Waynes suggests, it should come as no surprise that he’ll be going pro a year early, since he’ll be considered one of the best cornerbacks available this spring. In fact, CBSSports.com’ rankings have Waynes atop the list of cornerbacks, and Todd McShay’s first mock draft of the season at ESPN.com has Waynes as the first corner coming off the board, at No. 20 overall. In addition to being solid in coverage, Waynes is viewed as a sure tackler who can contribute in run support as well.
You can find our list of underclassmen who have declared their intent to enter the 2015 NFL draft right here.