Houston defensive tackle Ed Oliver is only a sophomore right now, so he could not declare for this year's NFL Draft. That said, make no mistake about where Oliver sees himself as soon as he becomes eligible.
"I do plan on leaving this year," Oliver said after Houston's practice on Monday. "It's just the truth. I wish I could stay another year, but it's just my time to go."
Oliver, a former five-star recruit of the 2016 class, has been one of the best defensive players in college football ever since he took the field for Houston. In two seasons, Oliver has racked up 139 total tackles (39.0 TFL), 10.5 sacks, and five forced fumbles, which are rare numbers for a defensive tackle. Oliver won the Outland Trophy for best interior lineman in the 2017 season, becoming the first underclassman to win that award per ESPN.
In terms of his NFL Draft prospects, Oliver likely could have been a Top 10 pick if he had been eligible to come out after his freshman year. He will likely compete for the No. 1 overall spot in the 2019 NFL Draft.
Oliver was the No. 6 overall recruit of the 2016 recruiting class when he signed with Houston. Oliver is believed to be the highest-rated prospect in modern history to attend a Group of 5 school.
You Might Also Like
College Football
NFL analyst gives surprising name as college football's top player in 2017
By Cole FrederickCollege Football
Former NFL, college football star passes away at 67
By Bo ChurneyLSU
Five-star DT Ishmael Sopsher has one team head-and-shoulders above the rest
By Bo ChurneyCollege Football
Michigan five-star Rashan Gary just put up a scary 40 time in spring workouts
By Bo ChurneyncG1vNJzZmiekaOvtsbZZ5qopV%2BYvK24xKCcZp6fpMGjrculZqGnpajBsLqMnptmp5yew6a%2BjJ2cnKSRp7K0eZFpaHJlnpu5brDRmp2tZw%3D%3D