:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57807799/607930870.jpg.0.jpg)
He gone.
Texas Longhorns junior safety DeShon Elliott officially announced that he’s forgoing his final season of eligibility to declare early for the 2018 NFL Draft, according to a statement released by the school.
Like left tackle Connor Williams, who made a similar announcement earlier in the week, Elliott will not participate in the Texas bowl game.
Here is the statement from Elliott:
After much thought and prayer, my family and I have made the decision to forego my senior year at The University of Texas to enter the NFL Draft. I will not be playing in the bowl game as I plan to begin preparing for my professional career immediately.
It was a very difficult decision that I put a lot of thought into. I want to thank my coaches and teammates for the support and all they've done to make an impact on my life. I really appreciate Coach Strong giving me the opportunity to play and grow as a player and person at Texas. Coach Herman has been amazing, and I'm really excited about what he's building here. I know that Longhorn football is in good hands. Coach Naivar and our strength coach Yancy McKnight have helped me take my game to the next level, and because of that, I feel prepared to take this next step.
To the awesome Longhorn fans, you have made every game in DKR an experience like no other, and for that, I thank you. And most of all, thank you to my parents for molding me into the athlete and person I am today. I couldn't have done it without you. I am excited about the future but will forever be a Longhorn.
A finalist for the Thorpe Award as the nation’s top defensive back, Elliott finished second on the team with 63 tackles (50 solo) and added 8.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, six interceptions (two returned for touchdowns), nine passes broken up, and three forced fumbles.
The product of Rockwall was a 2015 Under Armour All-American who was ranked No. 186 player nationally and the No. 10 safety, according to the 247Sports Composite rankings.