University of Tennessee Athletics
Washington Announces Intentions to Enter NFL Draft
January 14, 2003 | Football
Jan. 14, 2003
Sophomore wide receiver Kelley Washington announced Tuesday in a statement his intention to leave the University of Tennessee and make himself available for the NFL draft. The statement follows:
"I want to communicate to the greatest fans and coaches in college football my current situation and future.
"I came to the University of Tennessee because of its great coaching staff and rich tradition in football. The coaches have been great to me in teaching me skills as a wide receiver. I came to the University of Tennessee as a walk-on. My vision and dream was to become a great receiver and contribute to the team's goal of competing for a national championship.
"In January of last year, I decided not to enter the NFL draft so I could help the team and improve my skills as a wide receiver. I made this decision in what I thought would be the best for my family, the team and me. During the Georgia game, I was injured and could not continue to play because of the injury. While I was on the sideline, I had a difficult time watching and not participating. If you don't walk in my shoes, I know it is hard for you to realize how I felt and how much I missed playing. However, the doctors told me I couldn't play until I had fully recovered from my injury.
"I was frustrated that I couldn't be on the field to help the team. I missed running through the 'T' and hearing the fans cheer me on. I decided to have surgery to correct my injury. The surgery was successful and the doctors are pleased with the results.
"After much thought and prayer, discussions with my family and the coaches, I have decided to make myself available for the NFL draft.
"I want to say thank you to all of you who have been so supportive and encouraging during this difficult time. I will miss the coaches, the academic experience and the wonderful fans. To the fans I want to say, thank you for being a wonderful part of my great experience at the University of Tennessee."
