Arizona State wide receiver Jaelen Strong will enter the 2015 NFL Draft.
The fourth-year junior's decision was announced on ASU's official web site.
"This has been one of the most difficult decisions of my life," Strong said in a prepared statement. "I've spoken to my family, and we feel it is best for me to declare for the 2015 NFL Draft."
Strong caught 75 passes for 1,062 yards and 10 touchdowns for the Sun Devils to earn a spot on the semifinalist list for the Biletnikoff Award, given annually to the nation's top receiver. At 6-3, 215 pounds, Strong is known for his ability to catch passes in traffic and beat defensive backs for contested receptions, as the Sun Devils' official Twitter feed illustrated in a farewell message:
Earlier this season, an NFL scout compared Strong to New Orleans Saints receiver Marques Colston.
Strong made 10 receptions for 202 yards and three touchdowns against Southern Cal, including a game-winning catch on a Hail Mary. He also had a 12-catch, 146-yard game against UCLA in Sepember.
Added ASU coach Todd Graham: "Jaelen's enormous impact was felt from the first day he stepped on the practice field with us more than 16 months ago. His work ethic, attention to detail and overall football IQ are just a few of his attributes that make him such a special talent."
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