Auburn DL Marks to enter NFL draft

Dec 30, 2008 - 6:29 PM AUBURN, Alabama (Ticker) -- Auburn defensive lineman Sen'Derrick Marks will skip his senior year to make himself eligible for the 2009 NFL draft.

The 6-1, 294-pound Marks announced his decision during a news conference Tuesday.

"I've had a great experience during the last four years at Auburn," Marks said. "However, I feel that it's in my best interest to enter my name into the 2009 NFL draft. It's always been a dream of mine, and I feel that I'm ready to advance to the next level."

Marks recorded 32 tackles, including 10 for a loss, and two sacks in 11 games this season at Auburn. The Alabama native has 114 tackles and 7 1/2 sacks in 37 career games with the Tigers.

A second-team All-SEC selection, Marks did not disclose whether Auburn's recent coaching change affected his decision to leave the school early.

Former Auburn head coach Tommy Tuberville resigned under controversial circumstances earlier this month and was replaced by Gene Chizik.

"Auburn is, and always will be a special place to me," Marks said. "I want to thank all of my coaches at Auburn for giving me the opportunity to play college football and get an education."