Oher withdraws from NFL draft

Jan 17, 2008 - 7:08 AM MEMPHIS, Tennessee (Ticker) -- After announcing his intentions to enter April's NFL draft on Monday, Mississippi offensive tackle Michael Oher decided on Wednesday to return for his senior season, according to a report in The Commercial Appeal.

Oher has started 34 consecutive games over his three seasons with the Rebels and earned All-Southeastern Conference honors each of the past two campaigns, helping pave the way for BenJarvus Green-Ellis' back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing campaigns.

"While I felt good about being projected as a possible first-round pick and had everybody in my corner, it just kept coming back to me that I was leaving some unfinished business at Ole Miss," Oher said in a statement released by the university.

"It's really about winning more games and going to a bowl game. I wanted to be a part of making that happen. Most of all, I want to finish my senior year with my teammates. Also, I'm sure Mom and Dad are happy with my decision to come back."

The 6-5, 325-pound Oher, who arrived at Ole Miss as the nation's top prep offensive tackle, also has made one more noteworthy person happy about his return.

"I was excited when Michael called to say he's decided to return to Ole Miss for his senior season," Rebels coach Houston Nutt said. "Michael told me he wanted to make a commitment to his academics and to football and be the very best football player he can be. It's good to have him back in the Ole Miss family."