The exodus at California has concluded, with running back Brendan Bigelow becoming the fifth underclassman to declare for the 2014 NFL Draft after a 1-11 season.
Bigelow, whose depature was first reported by the Bay Area News Group and confirmed by the school, was supposed to be a breakout star in head coach Sonny Dykes' Bear Raid spread offense and build on a memorable 2012 outing at Ohio State, in which he rushed for 160 yards and two touchdowns on just four carries. But after rushing for 55 yards on the first series of the season opener, Bigelow had just 366 yards the rest of the way, adding 34 receptions for 202 yards after spending time as a slot receiver.
With a history of major knee injuries dating back to high school, Bigelow (5-foot-10, 180 pounds) might be gambling that his current health outweighs the chance to live up to those brief flashes of success as a senior.
Bigelow must show off his rare speed in workouts to have any chance of being drafted. He might have to deliver in a rookie camp and then in the summer to have any chance to making a roster.
Follow Dan Greenspan on Twitter @DanGreenspan.
