Alabama's Trent Richardson, Dre Kirkpatrick and Dont'a Hightower Leave For NFL Draft
By Ty Duffy
After winning the BCS title, three Alabama underclassmen have declared for the NFL Draft. Heisman finalist running back Trent Richardson departs, as do cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick and linebacker Dont’a Hightower. Safety Robert Lester will stay for his senior season. That makes three fewer kids on Nick Saban’s hit list.
Richardson is just a physical freak, probably the most impressive running back to enter the draft since Peterson in 2007. Surely, he will be able to provide for his family. Kirkpatrick is the best cornerback in the draft after Morris Claibourne and could also be a top ten pick. Hightower could be a first rounder as well. The Tide also lose seniors Mark Barron and Courtney Upshaw to the first round. Defensive tackle Josh Chapman should be a second day pick.
Previously: College Football Top 20 For 2012
Previously: Trent Richardson’s Heisman Run?
Previously: Trent Richardson’s Touchdown Run Against Ole Miss