SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) — Notre Dame tight end Troy Niklas will skip his senior season and enter the NFL draft.
The school confirms that the 6-foot-7, 270-pound junior from Fullerton, Calif., has informed coach Brian Kelly of his decision.
Niklas released a statement saying it was a difficult decision, but he wanted to pursue his childhood dream. He was told by the NFL draft advisory board he likely would be selected between the second and fourth rounds. Niklas was third on the team in receiving with 32 catches for 498 yards and five touchdowns.
Niklas is the fourth Irish player with eligibility left to declare for this year’s draft. He joins defensive linemen Louis Nix III and Stephon Tuitt and running back George Atkinson III. Niklas’ decision was first reported by SI.com.
