The declarations of soon-to-be first round picks in the upcoming NFL draft continue. Mississippi State offensive tackle Charles Cross will opt out of his team’s bowl game and focus on his professional career, per ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller (via Twitter). 
Cross’ college career will come to an end after two seasons in the SEC. Listed at six-foot-five, 310 pounds, the redshirt sophomore is widely regarded as one of the top prospects across any offensive line position, and is thought to be a likely top-ten pick.
In a tweet, Cross said in part, “Over the past three years, I have grown off the field just as much as I have developed on it… I will always remember and be thankful for my time as a Bulldog and will continue to proudly represent Mississippi State as I pursue my dream of playing in the NFL.”
Mississippi State finished the 2021 season with a 7-5 record, and will play 6-6 Texas Tech on December 28th in the Liberty Bowl.