Maryland WR Heyward-Bey opts for draft

Jan 7, 2009 - 8:04 PM COLLEGE PARK, Maryland (Ticker) -- Maryland wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey, a two-time Atlantic Coast Conference pick, announced Wednesday that he will enter the NFL draft.

Heyward-Bey ends his career ranked second on Maryland's all-time list in receiving yards (2,089), third in receptions (138) and tied for third in touchdown catches (13).

He had four receptions for 48 yards in Maryland's 42-35 victory over Nevada in the Humanitarian Bowl.

"After the bowl game I sat down with my mom, my aunt and coach (Ralph) Friedgen to explore my options and felt like the time is right to take my game to the next level," Heyward-Bey said. "It was a very difficult decision. I love the University of Maryland and everything people have done for me the last four years."

He completed his junior campaign with a team-high 42 receptions for 609 yards and five receiving touchdowns en route to honorable mention All-ACC honors. He also ranked third on the team in rushing with 202 yards on 15 carries.

"Darrius has made a tremendous contribution to our program over the last four years," Friedgen said. "He is the kind of young man we want representing the University of Maryland, both on and off the field. We wish him nothing but the best in the NFL."