Urban Meyer says Decker, Washington to return for senior seasons

On the eve of the national championship game, Ohio State coach Urban Meyer looked ahead to next season when he revealed offensive lineman Taylor Decker and defensive tackle Adolphus Washington would both forego the NFL Draft and return to the school in 2015.

On the eve of the national championship game, Ohio State coach Urban Meyer looked ahead to next season when he revealed offensive lineman Taylor Decker and defensive tackle Adolphus Washington would forego the NFL draft and return to the school in 2015, the AP reported. 

Meyer, speaking to reporters in Dallas on Sunday, said Decker and Washington were the only non-senior members considering leaving early to pursue a career in the NFL.

• RICKMAN: Which X-factors could play key roles in national title game?

Injured quarterback Braxton Miller, who didn't play in a game in 2014, is also expected to return to the Buckeyes next season, Meyer said. Starting quarterback Cardale Jones told reporters last week he would also return to the school for the 2015 season.

Decker is a 6-foot-7 junior who helped anchor an offensive line that gave up a middle-of-the-FBS-pack 1.96 sacks per game, and was part of one of just six offenses in the country to gain more than 7.03 yards per play. 

• ELLIS: Where do Ohio State, Oregon have an advantage?

Washington has contributed 45 tackles and 3.5 sacks so far this season to the country's 18th-best per-play defense, which allows 4.86 yards per play.  

Ohio State and Oregon will kick off Monday night for the national championship at 8:30 p.m. EST. 

- Will Green