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Clemson's Hopkins to enter NFL draft
Posted: 01.10.2013 at 7:21 PM
Brian McConchie

Brian is the Sports Director for the WACH Fox.

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Clemson receiver DeAndre Hopkins announced Thursday he will leave school early and enter the 2013 NFL draft.  / Source:IPTAY Media
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CLEMSON, SC (WACH) - Clemson receiver DeAndre Hopkins announced Thursday he will skip his senior season and enter the 2013 NFL draft.

The All-American told his teammates at a teem meeting late Thursday afternoon, just one day after Clemson quarterback, and ACC player of the year, Tajh Boyd announced he would stay in school for his senior season.

"It is tough to leave because this is my home, this is the place I wanted to play since I came out of the womb," said Hopkins. "But, I feel it is best for me and my family to take my talents to NFL at this time."

Hopkins is coming off one of the best seasons in Clemson history for a receiver. The Central native had 82 catches for 1,405 yards and 18 touchdowns. Hopkins set ACC records for touchdown receptions in a season and consecutive games with at least one touchdown reception with 10.

The explosive receiver , who was constantly showered with chants of 'Nuk' by the Clemson faithful, wrapped up his Clemson career with 13 catches, 191 yards and two touchdowns in Clemson's come-from-behind 25-24 win over 7th ranked LSU at the Chick-fil-A Bowl on New Year's Eve. a 25-24 Clemson victory. His yardage total is an all-time record for the bowl game.

"Nuk was a big reason we won 11 games and reached a final number-10 national ranking," said head coach Dabo Swinney. "We have had many talks and he feels it is the best thing for he and his family. I fully support him in his decision.

He will make an outstanding professional. He has done a lot for this program and we wish him much success at the next level. We all look forward to following his progress."

Hopkins was named first-team All-ACC and was a second-team All-America selection by Athlon, CBS Sports, Lindys, Phil Steele and Scout.com. He was a third-team selection by Associated Press. He was also a semifinalist for the Biletnikoff Award.

He set Clemson career records for touchdown receptions by hauling in 27 scores and total reception yards with 3,020. Hopkins ranked second in the nation in touchdown receptions and was fourth in receiving yardage.

"I have to thank the Clemson alumni, the fans, the coaches and my teammates for all the support they have given me through the good times and the bad," said Hopkins. "No matter what I will always be a Clemson Tiger."

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