University of Tennessee Athletics
Washington to Remain at Tennessee
January 11, 2002 | Football
Jan. 11, 2002
Complete Text of Washington and Fulmer Statements
KNOXVILLE - Tennessee receiver Kelley Washington announced today that he plans to stay in school and play for the Vols next season, bypassing an opportunity to enter this year's NFL Draft.
Washington, who led the Vols with 64 receptions for 1010 yards and five touchdowns and earned first-team Freshman All-America honors, said he made his decision last night while driving back to Knoxville from his hometown of Stephens City, Va., after his mother told him that he should not base his decision on her.
"I asked this special woman if she wanted to be taken care of now or one year later," said Washington during his press conference statement at the Neyland-Thompson Sports Center. "Her response to me was, 'I can make it, son. I know you will make the right decision.'
"With my love for Tennessee football and all aspects of college, the main individual who I who I want to never work again wants to watch her son run through the T one more year, hear the crowd roar one more year and see her son point at her one more year. I've decided to remain at the University of Tennessee"
Washington's return should boost the Vols offense after fellow receiver Donte' Stallworth (announced his decision to enter the NFL yesterday. Head coach Phillip Fulmer said Washington's return would be a "night and day" difference for
"Obviously, I'm elated with Kelley's decision, said Fulmer. "In our conversations that we've had, Kelley Washington has researched this decision as well and as much as anybody that I've been around. We appreciate his decision and his dedication to this football team and to his family."
Washington, who played four seasons of minor league baseball in the Marlins organization out of high school, joined the Vols last spring as a walk-on. Fulmer said another year in college will allow Washington to polish his impressive skills.
"We're anxious to see improve and learn the receiver position because much of what he accomplished this season was on sheer talent," said Fulmer. "I think Kelley has a chance to be one of the top players in the country picked next year. He is certainly a special athlete and we will do all that we can to see that his abilities are utilized to the utmost."
Today is the deadline for college players to declare their intentions for the NFL Draft. Earlier this week, Tennessee defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth and wide receiver Donte Stallworth announced that they will enter this spring's draft.
