2017 draft prospect Charles Walker is leaving the University of Oklahoma in order to prepare for next year’s NFL draft, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com (Twitter link). Walker informed Sooners head coach Bob Stoops of his decision today, per Rapoport.
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The reaction to Walker’s decision has been swift and unkind, both from within the team and from outsiders. “Quitting on your teammates is hard to take as a coach,” said Oklahoma defensive coordinator Mike Stoops in perhaps the sternest rebuke of Walker’s move to leave school (Twitter link via Ryan Abers of the Oklahoman). Meanwhile, Walker’s work ethic had already been questioned by scouts, according to Matt Miller of Bleacher Report (Twitter link), who guesses that Walker’s decision won’t be well-received.
Walker drew praise for his 2015 campaign, during which he posted six sacks and 36 tackles in 11 games. This season, however, he’s been limited by a concussion, and has played in only four contests. Draftniks differ on his valuation, as well, as Miller ranks Walker as the No. 35 overall player, while CBSSports.com places Walker just 91st overall as the ninth-best defensive tackle.
Given that he’s already suffering from concussions I don’t play him for thinking he has only so many hits left in his career. Why risk your career/life for nothing when if he performs well in the combine he can set his family up well for decades (hopefully).
Easy for the coach to say when he’s getting paid millions. As a teammate would I be disappointed? Of course, but honestly I wouldn’t be shocked if more guys went this route. I know another season of college hasn’t really helped Leonard Fournette
does anyone know the kids situation??? does he have family to support? for a coach whos making a couple hundred grand a year to tell a kid who might need cash to take care of family that hes a quitter is ridiculous….Nfl scouts will have to do their due dilligence on his character and his injuries…but if he checks out and “Needs” the money i dont see a problem with him leaving school.
Nobody is so destitute that they “need” NFL signing bonus money
What world are you living in? There’s literally millions of people in this country in that position