For now, it appears South Carolina running back Brandon Wilds won't be among the college underclassmen declaring early eligibility for the 2015 NFL Draft.
The junior chose not to be recognized Saturday during South Carolina's Senior Day ceremony. Gamecocks coach Steve Spurrier allows juniors to participate in the festivities if they expect to leave for the NFL. Beyond that, Wilds suggested he needs another year at the college level, anyway.
"I know I'm not ready as far as right now coming out. Hopefully next year I'll be walking," Wilds said, according to Matt Connolly of the Spartanburg Herald-Journal. Earlier this month, Wilds suggested he was considering leaving early for the NFL.
Wilds rushed 16 times for 77 yards Saturday in South Carolina's 37-12 win over South Alabama. He has been effective in a backup role this season behind star rusher Mike Davis, carrying 99 times for 556 yards and four touchdowns. If Davis turns pro early, as Spurrier himself has said he expects, Wilds figures to be among the top rushers in the SEC next season.
Davis' older brother, James, a former Clemson star running back who was a sixth-round pick of the Cleveland Browns, is among those advising the younger Davis on his decision.
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