NFL Draft 2010 NFL 2010 Drafts

The expected heavy influx of nonseniors applying for this year's NFL draft did not happen despite looming labour unrest in the league.

Although a record-tying 53 players declared for early entry, that number released yesterday by the NFL was short of projections. "I think that the colleges have really done a good job of telling these young men how it is to their advantage to stay in school," said NFL draft consultant Gil Brandt. With a potential rookie wage scale in the next collective bargaining agreement, more juniors were expected to declare.

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Six All-Americans did apply: defensive backs Eric Berry of Tennessee and Joe Haden of Florida; defensive end Derrick Morgan of Georgia Tech; tight end Aaron Hernandez of Florida; linebacker Rolando McClain of Alabama; and wide receiver Golden Tate of Notre Dame. Mississippi QB Jevan Snead, Notre Dame QB Jimmy Clausen, Southern California running back Joe McKnight and Penn State linebacker Navorro Bowman also declared early for April's draft.

The 53 players match the previous high in 2008; last year, 46 declared. Brandt said: "If you are good enough, you will get it (the money) anyway. This way, you get to enjoy your senior year and get that diploma."