Florida Gators quarterback Kyle Trask to turn pro after record season
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 19: Kyle Trask #11 of the Florida Gators looks to pass against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half of the SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 19, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. C
Florida quarterback Kyle Trask made his future plans official Thursday, formally announcing he’s declining an opportunity to return to school and entering the NFL draft.
No one thought Trask would stick around following a record-breaking season that included being named a Heisman Trophy finalist. Even coach Dan Mullen made it clear he was moving forward with Emory Jones and Anthony Richardson at the position.
Nonetheless, Trask made his announcement in a 2 minute, 19 second video released on social media.
STIMULUS CHECK: $600 stimulus checks hit more bank accounts on New Year's Day, how to track yours
"This decision, I talked a lot with my coaches about it, I talked with my family, my friends and just my support group," Trask said. "I feel it’s best to chase my dreams of playing in the NFL. I’ve had dreams of playing in the NFL ever since I was a kid. Just to have this opportunity to play at the next level, it’s crazy and I’m just going to try and go and make the most of it."
Trask completed 68.9% of his passes for 4,283 yards and 43 touchdowns this season. He led the nation in passing yards and TD passes. He also ran for three scores. He broke the previous school record (39) for TD passes (39) set by 1996 Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel.
Defensive tackle Kyree Campbell also announced plans to turn pro. Campbell was one of three defensive starters to opt out of the Cotton Bowl on Wednesday night.
THE LATEST: Senate overrides Trump’s veto of annual defense policy bill
Trask and Campbell are both seniors who could have played one more year under a special NCAA rule put in place because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Fellow defensive tackle Zachary Carter, meanwhile, announced plans to return to school for his senior season. Carter led the Gators with five sacks in 2020.
Tune in to FOX 35 Orlando for the latest Central Florida news.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.