McKinley ponders jump to NFL

[garnet4ever]

McKinley’s father says receiver will stay

By Joseph Person
The State
Published: December 1, 2007

http://www.gogamecocks.com/index.php/site/daily_article/mckinleys_father_says_receiver_will_stay/

The father of USC receiver Kenny McKinley said two things could make the junior consider leaving school early: If he is projected as a first-round draft pick or if Gamecocks coach Steve Spurrier takes another job.

But the elder McKinley is not anticipating either of those scenarios happening.

“If Spurrier was leaving or something, then a whole lot of stuff may change,” Ken McKinley said Friday in a telephone interview. “I can’t imagine that happening. But you never know.”

Spurrier is rumored to be LSU’s top target if Les Miles succeeds Lloyd Carr at Michigan. Spurrier has dismissed the speculation, saying he wants to coach freshman quarterback Stephen Garcia and the other members of the top-10 recruiting class who signed with USC in February.

Spurrier would welcome working with McKinley for another year, as well.

In his first year as the Gamecocks’ go-to receiver, McKinley broke Sterling Sharpe’s USC single-season record with 77 catches. The native of Mableton, Ga., leads the SEC in receptions and his 968 receiving yards rank second behind Tennessee’s Lucas Taylor.

McKinley will ask for an evaluation from the NFL’s underclassmen advisory committee for insurance purposes, according to his father. McKinley said after the Clemson game he intends to return for his senior season.

“Unless, like he said, somebody can pretty much guarantee that he’d be a first-round pick, he’ll be back. He’s having fun. He’s also trying to get a college degree,” Ken McKinley said. “Personally, I know he’s been doing well, but I don’t’ think he’s reached his potential at that position, yet.”

McKinley, a high school quarterback, played two seasons alongside former USC receiver Sidney Rice, who bolted to the NFL with two years of eligibility remaining. Agents have been calling McKinley to see if he wants to follow Rice’s lead.

“There’s a lot of hype out there and people trying to get him to jump,” Ken McKinley said. “Maybe if we were in a position where we were hurting for money. But we can pay our bills, so we don’t need that.”

[Sides]

I can't believe such a big deal is made of this. I like Kenny and think he has a shot in the pros, but he is nowhere close to a first round pick.

[Ga_Gamecock]

I know spurrier is prob tired of all this coaching change garbage, but he needs to squash this one (again) and do it soon ... if our own players and parents are up in the air, the recruits need to know what the deal is ... the sooner the better

[cockygal]

What else can Spurrier do? He keeps saying he's not leaving! He can't control what everyone else speculates.

[big cock fan]

I honestly think if ESPN keeps this up then the university should sue them. It hurts recruiting when all the kids think hes going to leave. We all know hes not going anaywhere but kids in highschool dont.

[scfan2001]

I honestly think if ESPN keeps this up then the university should sue them. It hurts recruiting when all the kids think hes going to leave. We all know hes not going anaywhere but kids in highschool dont.

I agree.

[TalkingHead]

What would we sue them for...making a bad guess?

[M.C.]

What would we sue them for...making a bad guess?being f***ing morons!

[TalkingHead]

being f***ing morons!

It's a shame that isn't against the law.

[usc90grad]

I can't believe such a big deal is made of this. I like Kenny and think he has a shot in the pros, but he is nowhere close to a first round pick.

I agree. Not bashing him, but he doesn't go in the first 3 rounds if he comes out this year.

[carolinafan53186]

It's possible you could sue them for defamation of character

[Rice Rice Baby]

I like the sound of this article, Kenny wont be projected in the 1st round and Spurrier isnt going anywhere so hope and pray to see Kenny in the garnet and black next year!

[cocky talker]

What would we sue them for...making a bad guess?

Libel and/or slander.

[TalkingHead]

Libel and/or slander.

So, you think ESPN is intentionally trying to damage us?

[Will4144]

I can't believe such a big deal is made of this. I like Kenny and think he has a shot in the pros, but he is nowhere close to a first round pick.
If Ted Ginn Jr. can be justified as a first rounder, I'm saying Kenny will be if he has a big year next year.

Until we're a winning program, we'll have to deal with the rumors of our coach leaving...

[crowcutta]

kenny's place in the draft whenever he comes out will definitely come down to how fast his 40 is. i dont think he has to put on much more weight at all. he's listed at 6 ft 181, marvin harrison is listed at 6 ft 185.
he comes back next year, i think he goes first two rounds in the 2009 draft. thats even assuming harvin and the crabtree kid from texas tech come out that year.

i like the useless stats so here's one to ponder, only 19 guys in the nation had more catches than kenny this year. only two of those 19 are non seniors in bcs conferences. michael crabtree and aaron kelly.

[Gamecockfanatic4]

If Ted Ginn Jr. can be justified as a first rounder, I'm saying Kenny will be if he has a big year next year.

Until we're a winning program, we'll have to deal with the rumors of our coach leaving...
yea I'd ike to thank the Dolphins for screwing that pick up then again what else is new with my phins lol

[uscjd2004]

It would be nice if agents calling RS Sophs and Juniors could be colored as tortious interference.

[crevil3lf]

So, you think ESPN is intentionally trying to damage us?

No, But the argument would be that he has stated many times he isn't going anywhere and they still continue to say he is a leading candidate and will probably end up in LSU after Les Miles leaves. (Who reported yesterday he was staying because "LSU is his team")

[TalkingHead]

They can guess all they want. Is speculation against the law? Has a coach ever said he wasn't going somewhere and then done just that?

I'll ask again, where is the malice?

[SwampFox]

It's a shame that isn't against the law.
As the saying goes, "The only reason some people are alive is because it's illegal to kill them".

I am very glad to hear McKinley is not giving into the temptation of the money to leave early. We have been hurt and hurt bad the last couple of years by key players bugging out early.

[cockfight21]

Is this turning into the law student board? JK. But I thought it didn't have to be malicious if there was a reckless disregard for the truth, or no factual basis for the statements. However, ESPN has not made any statements to the effect that they know anything, they are allowed to state that they believe something. On the other hand, maybe Les Miles could sue.

[TalkingHead]

Is this turning into the law student board? JK. But I thought it didn't have to be malicious if there was a reckless disregard for the truth, or no factual basis for the statements. However, ESPN has not made any statements to the effect that they know anything, they are allowed to state that they believe something. On the other hand, maybe Les Miles could sue.

Okay, I'll get it back on track. I am glad Kenny will be staying another year. We will need him next year.

[eklypised]

good to hear

[GapoGamecock51]

I think even though Sidney seems to be panning out, even though the Vikings are'nt pass happy, I think the allure of the NFL wont snatch Kenny from us. At 6-6 I think Kenny feels he has unfinished business and will most definitely be back. With Lecorn, Cook, Saunders, and Kenny the receiving corp showed us glimpses of whats to come, and Im happy that I should be home next year to see a great year in Carolina football.

Gapo

[SNEEZ]

i've learned to not fully trust college kids about going pro or not until they show up at Spring Game, we'll find out then

[GAMECOCKEXPRESS]

It's possible you could sue them for defamation of character If that's the case, it should of been done to Ron Morris years ago, and that Clemson butt kisser that works for the Rock Hill Herald who despises the Gamecocks.

[JAYBEZ]

What would we sue them for...making a bad guess?

Taste infringement. Coke Zero taste too much like regular coke.

[morgan n' 7]

McKinley ponders jump to NFL


USC receiver joins Munnerlyn and Norwood as all-SEC first-team selections
Published: Wednesday, December 5, 2007 - 2:00 am By Rick Scoppe
COLUMBIA BUREAU



COLUMBIA -- Even as he talked about being selected All-Southeastern Conference, wide receiver Kenny McKinley opened the door -- albeit barely -- to going pro instead of coming back for his senior season at the University of South Carolina.


McKinley said before the Arkansas game Nov. 3 that he wasn't "even thinking about going. I think I'm good in college right now." But he said he has asked the NFL's underclassmen committee to evaluate where he might be drafted.


"I'm not going to say 100 percent, but 98 percent" that he would remain at USC, McKinley said Tuesday. "The only way that I wouldn't come back is if I go and get a first-round grade or just something crazy happens -- any coaches leave or something like that.

"But most likely I'll be coming back."



McKinley this season caught a school-record 77 passes and led the SEC in receptions.
He was a first-team pick by the coaches along with defensive end Eric Norwood and cornerback Captain Munnerlyn. Safety Emanuel Cook was as second-team pick.


"That's a big accomplishment right there," McKinley said. "I'm glad the coaches could pick me. I'm just honored. I'm not really surprised because I led the SEC in catches and second in yards (per game) I thought I'd probably be first team."


Still, it came after a year that began with many wondering how McKinley would fare with the loss of the Gamecocks' top receiver, Sidney Rice, who opted to leave two years early for the NFL.


"I always knew what I was capable of doing," McKinley said. "My coaches put me in a good situation, and my quarterback and teammates put me in a good situation to make some big plays. "I'm just happy I came as far as since I first got here. I used to play quarterback in high school. And to come from that to become an elite receiver it's really an accomplishment."


http://greenvilleonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071205/SPORTS0102/712050405/1026

[Rice Rice Baby]

sounds about the same as what he has been saying, I wish he was 100% sure!

[jaytda4th]

i hope it is a very muggy scout day.. i might be selfish but i don't want him to somehow grade out as a first rounder.

[morgan n' 7]

The only thing that worries me....

Let's say (hypothetically) Kenny went pro. I was comfortable when Rice left, because Kenny had two years in Spurrier's offense. I thought he would do well, and he did.

Lecorn (my guess) would be the next to step in to the #1 receiver position, but he's only been in the system for one year. I'm not comfortable with that situation..

That said, I think Kenny stays.

[yShalabi]

Doesnt matter, stay or go... we have receivers.

I hope he decides whats best for him.

[Rice Rice Baby]

^ it definately matters, yes we have recievers and we will do alright either way. But many said it didnt matter last year when Rice left, however that hurt us tremendously this year. It DEFINATELY matters, we will be much better off especially with whoever ends up starting as QB. We need a proven reciever with excellent hands like kenny.

[Mr. Burns]

As the weeks go by, it will continue to become more slippery. I don't like the current status of Kenny. This is a bit worrisome... Do you disagree? See Sidney Rice last year in early December...

[Rice Rice Baby]

^ very good point, Rice was very similar in his wording

[SpuR48]

he's gone...

[crowcutta]

i doubt he comes out but i think he'll end up timing faster than we'd guess whenever he does. only 3 underclassmen from bcs conferences had more catches than kenny this year.
you might see juniors earl bennett, desean jackson, mario manningham and james hardy come out this year, the first two kinda had dropoffs from the previous year, but desean would still have his 40 time and return skills to hang his hat on

[SpuR48]

I really, REALLY hope I'm wrong, but after the Rice debacle, I've learned to not count on anything.

Although Kenny's dad said they're not hurting for money right now.

[Cruzer]

Hopefully he's just fishing. Hell, I'd wanna know where I stood also.

[Cockadoo]

Why would you even consider getting graded by the scouts unless you had the slightest of an idea that you may want to jump pro? So he's thinking it. If he grades high he's gone.

[The Dude]

I hope he stays for the sole reason of helping bring our other wrs up to speed...he needs to teach them a thing or two about footwork and routes!!!

[WeHailTheeCarolina]

Why would you even consider getting graded by the scouts unless you had the slightest of an idea that you may want to jump pro? So he's thinking it. If he grades high he's gone.

He said he would go if he got a first round grade... That would be a slightest idea. I think he could be gone, but I surely hope not.

[NXS]

I sure hope he stays, because I can't help but wonder how our season would have turned out if Rice would have stayed. No doubt our offense would have been more productive all the way around.

[TStone]

Once he gets an agent talking in his ear about how much money he can make and about how he could ruin his chances if he gets hurt like Jasper did I *seriously* doubt he will stay. I mean, would you stay if you were being promised buttloads of money? The only bright light I see is that his dad has been an advocate of him staying for his Sr year.

[rnecavs07]

yea as of right now i feel he is good as gone too...just cause he said he is 98% sure and rice was 99.9% sure he as coming back just for that fact now im expectin him to leave i hope he dosent but im not gonna let what happened to us last year happen again in us expecting our best wr to come back

[KadCock]

Even though he had a good year, his numbers weren't all that staggering, except for receptions. But, if he does go, that bodes well for recruiting IMO...having two #1 receivers in a row drafted. Wide reciever recruits like to go to a place that puts wide receivers in the NFL.

[Cockadiddle]

Even though he had a good year, his numbers weren't all that staggering, except for receptions. But, if he does go, that bodes well for recruiting IMO...having two #1 receivers in a row drafted. Wide reciever recruits like to go to a place that puts wide receivers in the NFL.

True, dat! We had a flood of receivers show up in last years recruiting class. Although we didn't see them develop as quickly as we'd hoped (except for Lecorn, obviously), they've got tons of potential. Adding some more frisbee-catching dogs bodes well for the future.

[superstar90]

I think Kenny is a great college WR, but his physical numbers won't allow him to grade out as a 1st rounder. It's just the way the pro game goes. How many of ya'll would have thought Jonathan Joseph would go 1st round after his season here? They worry more about potential than anything, so Kenny should be a safe bet to be back next season. He'll get drafted after next season.

On a side note. I know Rice is probably happy and rich enough, but if he would have waited until this season, he would have been the 1st WR taken.

[TalkingHead]

...having two #1 receivers in a row drafted.

?

[2000grad]

We will NEVER be able to be contenders when we have our players leaving early all the time. Again, imagine the possibilities with Rice, McKinley, Simpson and Joseph here. Spurrier hs to find a way to keep them at USC. I know that at other programs things happen, but other programs also find a way to KEEP their players there so they can contend.

[JAYBEZ]

Why would you even consider getting graded by the scouts unless you had the slightest of an idea that you may want to jump pro? So he's thinking it. If he grades high he's gone.

Actually, a lot of players that elect to stay the extra year will do this for insurance purposes.

Many will take out an insurance plan based on their draft value. That way, if they get injured their senior year and can't play again, they will get the insurance money to help compensate.

[johnnyb]

Why would you even consider getting graded by the scouts unless you had the slightest of an idea that you may want to jump pro? So he's thinking it. If he grades high he's gone.

i dont know much about it but i have heard people say that is is a good idea for kids to get graded to kind of get a salary idea for insurance purposes, incase of career ending injury or something, but realisticly if he finds out he would go early first round, i wouldnt fault him for leaving, he could make more in a year or two than most of us will make in a lifetime...i feel like he has been very good for and to us as a team and i wish him the best, whatever decision he makes. (still hope he stays tho.lol)

***DANGIT*** beat me by a minute jaybez!

[Cocky2001]

On a side note. I know Rice is probably happy and rich enough, but if he would have waited until this season, he would have been the 1st WR taken.

Yes he would have been. And we would have had a dramatically different season too. Unfortunately, there were other matters playing into things this time last season, but had he waited, Sid would have signed for a bunch more money this year...Blake would have had his 'go-to-guy'...and we'd be waiting for January to get here for our bowl game.

[Spur's Addiction]

It wouldn't surprise me if he left. Money talks.

that said...

Please, please please stay Kenney!

[ShutTheSuccop]

I can't wait until we get to the point that losing a receiver will not have a huge impact on our next season. IMHO, if Sidney was not a first rounder with his size, then I don't think that Kenny will be either....however, the money that is there to be made is hard to turn down and I can't blame him if he jumps...

[USC-Hokie]

Joe Hills my friends.

[SportyCock]

sounds about the same as what he has been saying, I wish he was 100% sure!

It also sounds a lot like what Rice was saying this time last year...:thumbs:

[Ga_Gamecock]

As the weeks go by, it will continue to become more slippery. I don't like the current status of Kenny. This is a bit worrisome... Do you disagree? See Sidney Rice last year in early December...


if i was kenny or jamon or any potential draftee i would do the same

if the advisory board says they think you could likely be a 1st round pick (or even a 4th rounder) thats good info to have ... and maybe they list his strengths/weaknesses and give him something to work towards in the offseason

and FWIW kenny and sidney are two very diff types of wr. maybe its just me, but i dont see him leaving

[jomo]

how does clemson get their players to stay? (gaines adams james davis)are they not worried about getting hurt or making money? what about phillip merrling i have not heard any talk about him leaving.

[pitchcock]

Players that have draft potential can get insurance through the NCAA. I think he's just doing what he needs to do to qualify for that insurance, because not every player can.

IMO, I don't see him being a 1st round pick this year. He's got to get stronger and more physical to deal with NFL DB's.

Plus, he needs to quit running downfield carrying the ball in one hand. I about had a heart attack several times this year watching that.:-o

If he can gain a little more size and strength, I can see him being a pretty high pick next year. He's a heck of a possession receiver right now, one more year and he'll be that much better.

[Sides]

He is just testing his draft status. Every player who is eligable to be drafted should do this every year. If you are a projected first rounder then you really can't afford to stay in school. I would have dropped out of college for a lot less money than NFL players.

I think he will be back because I dont think there is any way in hell he is a first round pick. Unless he shows up with Troy Willamson or Ted Ginn speed then he will be back.

He needs to learn to tuck the ball in after the catch. he almost gave me a heart attack during the Clemson game.

[Sides]

Sorry pitchcock, I didn't see your post but I agree 100%

[SC Sandlapper]

He's apparently got the same agent feeding him sound bites that Rice had. "Only leaving if I am first round" etc etc. Heard it before kid.

I don't believe a damn word any of them say and I would be shocked if he stays. I feel the only reason he would stay is if he completely falls flat on his face in the NFL tryouts.

When Sidney Rice shows up on campus in his gaudily expensive automobile and other signs of wealth, you know that makes an impression on his former teammates. They are gonna want some of that.

So maybe we will be OK at WR without him, maybe not, but having our best players leaving early for the pros year after year after year is something we cannot afford at this stage.

[ra742002]

Yes he would have been. And we would have had a dramatically different season too. Unfortunately, there were other matters playing into things this time last season, but had he waited, Sid would have signed for a bunch more money this year...Blake would have had his 'go-to-guy'...and we'd be waiting for January to get here for our bowl game.

This assumption is just that, an assumption. We still didn't have an OL for 85% of the season. W/O an OL, we have no QB to get the ball to either receiver. Imagine the possibilities had our OL not wiffed on soooo many plays.

[TalkingHead]

This assumption is just that, an assumption. We still didn't have an OL for 85% of the season. W/O an OL, we have no QB to get the ball to either receiver. Imagine the possibilities had our OL not wiffed on soooo many plays.

Exactly! The o-line, not the lack of Rice was our problem on offense...again, just like it was the first part of the season last year when we had Rice.

I am more and more amazed every day how far some of us will go to make excuses to keep from addressing our real problems.

[ConwayGamecock]

IMO, it depends on how McKinley sees himself as a WR, and what kind of money he wants. Kenny is not big, or especially fast, or very physical. He doesn't have an innate talent of going up and grabbing passes and taking them from defenders, like Rice had. He's a very sound receiver with solid routes and above average speed. He finished 2nd in the SEC in receiving yards, but he led the SEC in receptions. There was no 1,000-yd receiver in the SEC this regular season (12 games), which is low even for the SEC.

What does the draft look like at the WR position? Are there a lot of WR's graduating, or projected to come out? That will play a role in where Kenny is drafted.

If Kenny stayes, he's got another year to have a 1,000-yd season, and to break most receiving records at USC. He should also finish pretty high up in the SEC for career receptions, yards and TD's. If he want's to get the big $$, and draft as high as he can, which will help dictate how much $$ he can get for the prime years of his career, he'll wait.

If Kenny would be happy just playing in the NFL, and being a millionaire instead of a multi-millionaire, then he may go, IMO.

If he does, USC may be pushed back another season in developing a successful, "Spurrier-like" passing offense: we already are going to have big questions with our running game, O-line and QB's. You can add the WR's to that pot if we don't have McKinley, IMO.....

[2000grad]

^Neither was Steve Largent, but the man could run routes. I think that is McKinley's strength. Plus, if it seems to be in his hands, he catches the ball.

[GotSpurrier82]

Kenny better sit his butt down and stay. I'm not losing another WR until he graduates. Damn near got my heart broken when Sidney left.

[U-Dub Gamecock]

I hate these GD agents.. If Rice played another year.. I would still have 1 more football game to go to this year!

[Cockholio]

It'd be hard for me to believe that a SEC 1st teamer wouldn't get at least 2nd round money or not be insurable. I hope he stays, but I also wish him luck whichever way it works out for him. He's a great Gamecock.

[cockynclinton]

he is gone

[Homebrewcock]

Like everyone, I hope he stays. Personally, I would be surprised to see him go first round this year. That said, I didn't think Jonathon Joseph would be a first rounder when he left.

[GoCCUChants]

Last year, I believed that deep down in my heart that Sidney was staying...then he left. I think I can speak for a lot of the Gamecock nation when I say (reiterating what many of you have said as well) that I'll believe him when its too late to declare for the draft. I think Sidney put doubt in our hearts and minds when it comes to the partial promises.

If you remember, at first with Sidney it was top 10 pick, then first round, then he was gone. Kenny is leaving himself more free room by saying first round.

I believe he leaves. Hope I'm wrong...but we do a large selection of WR for next season!!!

[SNEEZ]

and I was blasted for saying he'd jump

[LegalCock]

Only prudent to get an evaluation, for insurance reasons if nothing else. His family is not in the same position financially as was Rice's. So he can afford to wait and stack up some more stats and build his skills and get more $ next season. He's the next steve smith.

[JAYBEZ]

If he leaves, next year will be a waste of time.

[lowcountrycock]

His Dad said he would get a evaulation for insurance purposes; but unless Spurrier left or he projected for the first round ,he would be returning.

[Dr. Cock]

I don't think he gets 1st Round status because of his 40, but what worries me is the agents will tell him otherwise. If we lose K-Mac, 6-6 is another likely scenario and would be another step back for this program.

[roosterrizk1]

Kenny and Sidney produced as Freshman and there is no need to think we cannot find two that can produce just like they did. Joe Hills would have played this year if not for injuries.

[Forkcock]

he is gone


Link?

[SangareeCrew]

I agree that if he leaves that is a HUGE setback for next season. Really, I think that someone leaving early has hurt us each season that SOS has been here. Losing Ko and JJ after 2005 and losing Sid after 2006 both hurt us big time.....I am sick of wondering about what might have been.....please stay Kenny...............................please?

[CaptainCrunch]

please stay mckinley

[OLDCOCK]

Mckinnley will be back -he is a very good college rec but he is not ready for the NFL quite yet! After next yr he will be ready as a great NFL 2 reciever. Take out a good ins policy and go have another great yr and then count your bucks!!!

[GotSpurrier82]

Kenny and Sidney produced as Freshman and there is no need to think we cannot find two that can produce just like they did. Joe Hills would have played this year if not for injuries.

This is true as well. I'm anxious to see what Chris Culliver is capable of. I can't tell much his returns. He's supposed to be fast though. With that said, I still don't want Kenny to leave.

K-Mac...I like that, Dr. Cock.

[uscnoklahoma]

Well if we ever want to be like OSU, Florida, USC, LSU, etc. we are going to have to learn how to deal with situations like this....one player doesn't kill them and it shouldn't kill us. That's why those stars that some don't like actually do matter.

[CoverTwo]

If he leaves we will just plug in Hills, Barnes, or Clements.

[TheGuitarCock]

He's not leaving

[usc90grad]

Terrible decision. Kenny needs another year....and playing on a team with more wins always helps your draft status.

[ShutTheSuccop]

I truly think that an honest assessment of his ability right now will get him in the late rounds of the draft at best, regardless of what his agent tells him. At his size, I don't know that he will ever play more than a third receiver/slot guy on a team. I think that he is a great college receiver, but the NFL prototypical recievers have much more size that can not be coached...If he leaves, he will be sorely disappointed.

[crowcutta]

size is not nearly as important anymore with the no contact after 5 yard rule. kenny could not only be a good receiver, he could be a great receiver at his size. route running, getting open, running after the catch, great hands, he has all the tools. kenny is listed at 6 ft 181, marvin harrison is listed at 6 ft 185.

[bradymatt]

It is very frustrating that everytime someone at USC has an ALL SEC type year at a position of need in the NFL they leave school. That is the culture that needs to change for us to win. Just think what the team would have been like with Ko, Johnathon Joseph, Troy Williamson, and Sidney Rice. Granted they would not have all been seniors together---but too much talent to lose over three years. Strange how the football and basketball teams continue to produce succesfull professional players yet we cant finish higher than middle of the pack because they jump for the money. When we consistently keep great players in school we will establish a winning tradition.

[The Yancey]

He would be stupid not to get hs grading and his insurance. He is not a stupid guy.

[uscnoklahoma]

It is very frustrating that everytime someone at USC has an ALL SEC type year at a position of need in the NFL they leave school. That is the culture that needs to change for us to win. Just think what the team would have been like with Ko, Johnathon Joseph, Troy Williamson, and Sidney Rice. Granted they would not have all been seniors together---but too much talent to lose over three years. Strange how the football and basketball teams continue to produce succesfull professional players yet we cant finish higher than middle of the pack because they jump for the money. When we consistently keep great players in school we will establish a winning tradition.

Excuses, excuses, excuses....Southern Cal, Texas, OSU, UF, etc. go through it every year and yet they still win 9 or more...EVERY YEAR. Why? They get those 5 star players year in and year out....we need about 5 years of a top 10 class before we can even think about it. Getting one great class doesn't mean jack if you don't follow it up with another great class. We need to finish strong this year.

[GAMECOCK12]

I know we all sit here and want a 19-22 year old to stay and play college football for selfish reasons. I want the kid to stay as much as anyone. Regardless, 1st or 2cd round money is probably more than most of us on this board will see in 5-10 years, maybe longer. Put yourself in his situation and honestly tell yourself you would stay around for 1 more year to break some record to only have Deion Lecorn break it in two more years!! That being said. With what has happened over the last few years (Joseph, Ko, Sid etc) let him make the decision that is right for him and his family and lets support it! Every great program has to deal with it!! Its called having depth and thats what we are building!!
:clap:

[SpurOwnsPhill]

how does clemson get their players to stay? (gaines adams james davis)are they not worried about getting hurt or making money? what about phillip merrling i have not heard any talk about him leaving.

I gotta be honest, I don't think james davis can go pro this year and make any money. He did not have a very good year, and there is absolutely NO hype about him whatsoever. I bet he would not even be in the top five running backs taken! And speaking of clemson running backs, cj spiller might want to think about either transferring or he might be having to hope he can make a team as a kick returner cuz that dude didn't do much besides run backwards and lose yards this year.

[Cockadoo]

I understand what some of you mean by the insurance policy and all, but answer me this. Can any of you remember a player who said they were just testing the waters and not go pro? Because I cant.

[WeHailTheeCarolina]

I understand what some of you mean by the insurance policy and all, but answer me this. Can any of you remember a player who said they were just testing the waters and not go pro? Because I cant.

Colt Brennan, but don't really remember others, because you don't hear about the ones who almost left, you hear about the ones who left.

[Cockadoo]

Colt Brennan, but don't really remember others, because you don't hear about the ones who almost left, you hear about the ones who left.

I meant at USC but I guess its also rare across the board.

[cocky2007]

I understand what some of you mean by the insurance policy and all, but answer me this. Can any of you remember a player who said they were just testing the waters and not go pro? Because I cant.

Cory Boyd and Jasper Brinkley both did it last year.

[Cockadoo]

Cory Boyd and Jasper Brinkley both did it last year.

Did they just say they would return or did they actively go out and seek information about their draft status?

[TalkingHead]

I understand what some of you mean by the insurance policy and all, but answer me this. Can any of you remember a player who said they were just testing the waters and not go pro? Because I cant.

Jasper and Cory last year, Fred Bennett a couple before that.

[gamecock ray]

I wish the best for Kenny. Sure I'd like to have him back, but I can understand if he left. I just hope that he does not get lied to and then bolts for the nfl. IMO I think an extra year would do him a lot of good. I guess I'm just jealous of Clemson because when their players say that they are coming back they usually stick to their word. I wish that our players cared enough to want to help us win a championship or two.

[87Cock09]

There is NO way he will project as a first rounder unless someone flat out lies to him, and we won't lose any offensive coaches besides maybe Hunt so he is coming back unles he pulls a Sidney lol.

[sc455]

We will NEVER be able to be contenders when we have our players leaving early all the time. Again, imagine the possibilities with Rice, McKinley, Simpson and Joseph here. Spurrier hs to find a way to keep them at USC. I know that at other programs things happen, but other programs also find a way to KEEP their players there so they can contend. It is called tradition. These kids feel honored to play at Texas, Ohio State, Penn State or Michigan. They value that scholly and bust it for the school..Our guys put up numbers and haul ass. Like steve told sidney..."if you stay one more year you will be a hero forever at carolina, if you leave now you will always be remembered as the guy who left". He left.

[puddle]

Has Kenny decided to go pro??????

[sc455]

Has Kenny decided to go pro?????? No, he is just getting evaluated and says he will stay if he isnt a first rounder, wich is what sid said

[jstrom]

Why would you even consider getting graded by the scouts unless you had the slightest of an idea that you may want to jump pro? So he's thinking it. If he grades high he's gone.

Strange thing is that what you say he'll do isn't exactly what McKinnley says he'll do. Why? you ask? One reason is it's the smart thing to do. It's going to happen eventually, so why not..when it's available. In business school, the primary lesson is Risk vs Reward. What's his risk...what's his reward? No brainer.

[ertman420]

Strange thing is that what you say he'll do isn't exactly what McKinnley says he'll do. Why? you ask? One reason is it's the smart thing to do. It's going to happen eventually, so why not..when it's available. In business school, the primary lesson is Risk vs Reward. What's his risk...what's his reward? No brainer.

Yup, but just like in business, your heart can play a big role in your decisions too...

Think of Kenny like the CEO of a burgeoning IT company that has an offer from a major telecom to buy him out for $10 million. Kenny knows that he can get out right now and be comfortable probably for the rest of his life. He's probably taking a big risk staying in school... he could be injured, could perform terribly, we might not have a decent QB next year, etc...
But I doubt Kenny is thinking just about the money.

He's thinking about the team he helped build. The young players he'll need to teach next year. The example he's setting for other students and student-athletes. He's probably also thinking that if stays another year and puts in another All-SEC Performance, he will most likely get an even BETTER offer next year.

Don't make Kenny out to be all business. He's one of the rare few that actually care about where they came from and the legacy he will leave behind.

Kenny will stay for his senior season. Bank on it.

[Cockadoo]

Jasper and Cory last year, Fred Bennett a couple before that.

What round were they projected to go in if they had entered the draft each of those respective years?

[McNasty]

everything i've seen has Cory in the 4th, Kenny in the 6th (earliest), Jasper not listed as he is expected to come back, Casper in the 7th or FA signing. also BI as a FA signing and i've seen Succop as the #2 kicker in the draft.

[Ga_Gamecock]

Yup, but just like in business, your heart can play a big role in your decisions too...

Think of Kenny like the CEO of a burgeoning IT company that has an offer from a major telecom to buy him out for $10 million. Kenny knows that he can get out right now and be comfortable probably for the rest of his life. He's probably taking a big risk staying in school... he could be injured, could perform terribly, we might not have a decent QB next year, etc...
But I doubt Kenny is thinking just about the money.

He's thinking about the team he helped build. The young players he'll need to teach next year. The example he's setting for other students and student-athletes. He's probably also thinking that if stays another year and puts in another All-SEC Performance, he will most likely get an even BETTER offer next year.

Don't make Kenny out to be all business. He's one of the rare few that actually care about where they came from and the legacy he will leave behind.

Kenny will stay for his senior season. Bank on it.

Well if Kenny is a biz man or 'CEO' like you describe then his decision has been made for him

Another poster said he is a 6th rounder at best this year. Thats p-nuts compared to wht he could get *in pocket* if he ups his stock to the 1st day ...

Going in the 6th isnt even close to padding your bank acct or making you 'comfortable for life' ... the only true way he could do that is with *guarnateed $* like a big signing bonus. I was pissed Sid left since i felt he would be the most talked about guy in this years draft after a monster (07) season ...

in this offense, if KMac puts up even bigger #s next year (which i expect) he will be much better off coming back and making his stock much more valuable thna it is this year

Im mean the #s arent even close ...

[Snake]

Injury likely to keep McKinley in college

If there was any chance of junior Kenny McKinley changing his mind and going pro, it appears an injury has put it to rest.

The South Carolina receiver will have surgery soon to repair arthritis in his toe. Gamecocks coach Steve Spurrier said he spoke a few days ago with McKinley, whose injury is not serious but could hurt his performance at NFL tryout camps.

“Having this right now, he is definitely not going to worry about working out for the pros in March or April,” Spurrier said Thursday.

McKinley, listed at 6 feet, was the top target in USC’s passing game this season. He hauled in 77 passes for 968 yards and nine touchdowns.

“I really believe Kenny McKinley when he says he’s coming back, and he says he and Jasper are all set,” Spurrier said. “So that’s their word right now, and I believe those guys.”

http://www.thestate.com/gamecocks/story/262761.html

[hellraiser24]

please dont leave kenny

[JAYBEZ]

I never would have thought it a few years back, but Kenny is going to be holding a lot of our WRs records by the time he is done here.

[Flameout12]

I never would have thought it a few years back, but Kenny is going to be holding a lot of our WRs records by the time he is done here.
Yep, and he could be a candidate for some honors like getting his name posted at W-B and maybe getting his number retired. These are the kinds of honors given to guys like Kenny who stick around and play 4 full years.
I would love to see him have that kind of year next year.

[RW13]

Kenny is on pace to break the career receptions and yards for a career. He'll need 9 TDs again in 2008 to break the career TD record, I don't know if he gets that one or not, he's definately (barring injury) locked up the other records

[crowcutta]

It is called tradition. These kids feel honored to play at Texas, Ohio State, Penn State or Michigan. They value that scholly and bust it for the school..Our guys put up numbers and haul ass. Like steve told sidney..."if you stay one more year you will be a hero forever at carolina, if you leave now you will always be remembered as the guy who left". He left.
dont really agree with that, we had 4 guys the past few years who thought they would go in the first round leave early. unfortunately two of those were sophmores, but michigan, ohio st, penn st, and texas all have plenty of early entrees to the draft. when you are good you reload, when you arent you cry about it.
you dont want all your guys to leave early of course but sometimes your difference makers leave early. you do need those difference makers who have the option of leaving early in the program.

[cack]

dont really agree with that, we had 4 guys the past few years who thought they would go in the first round leave early. unfortunately two of those were sophmores, but michigan, ohio st, penn st, and texas all have plenty of early entrees to the draft. when you are good you reload, when you arent you cry about it.
you dont want all your guys to leave early of course but sometimes your difference makers leave early. you do need those difference makers who have the option of leaving early in the program.

exactly ... i've said it over and over ... you don't hear it being a problem at Florida, Michigan, and other top notch schools because they have the depht ... we're gettin the talent here and there ... but don't have the talent to step in and fill the role ... when Troy left the fan base was screaming "WHY, WHO'S GOING TO FILL THAT VOID" ... Sidney came and NOBODY said a word about Troy ... Sidney left ... and honestly McKinley stepped up just a big this year ... we just don't have the depth all over the field ... YET

[Acockolypse Now]

It is called tradition. These kids feel honored to play at Texas, Ohio State, Penn State or Michigan. They value that scholly and bust it for the school..Our guys put up numbers and haul ass.

13 Juniors from Ohio State recently filed to explore their NFL draft status. I guess that puts your theory to rest.

[crowcutta]

and the positions we lost people early to, i think we've been fine at, secondary and receiver. sure jj and ko could have made us better for one year, but hopefully we're in it for the long haul, not just one good year. right now in the secondary we're fine. receiver we seem to be fine there as well.
sure it took us over half the year to finally get our no.2 receiver, but we still had two good tight ends and our backs as receiving options. the search for the no.2 receiver didnt really hurt us this year, by the time we found our no.2 guy everything else seemed to fall apart.
going into next year at the spots we lost our 4 early entrees, we have every starter returning, that's building something hopefully