Former FSU Defensive End Declares for NFL Draft After One Season at Colorado
The Colorado Buffaloes enter into 2023 with an immense amount of hype under new head coach Deion Sanders. Sanders was able to bring in over 50 new transfers and rebuild a 1-11 roster and defensive end Derrick McLendon II, a former Seminole, was one of them.
On Wednesday, McLendon announced that he was declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft despite having one year of eligibility remaining, after spending one season in Boulder as a backup. He totaled 17 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two fumble recoveries. McLendon was granted an extra year due to the COVID-19 pandemic but will instead pursue the NFL.
"The past five years have prepared me for this decision. First and foremost, I'd like to start by thanking God. Without His continuous blessings of good health, mental stability, and talent to play this game, I wouldn't be here," McLendon wrote on Instagram. "Also, I want to thank my family, friends, coaches, trainers, and fans for their unconditional love and support throughout this arduous journey. Without you all, this process would have been that much more difficult."
McLendon spent four years at Florida State before transferring to Colorado in the spring and played in 21 games while starting in 12 of his last thirteen appearances. He recorded 41 tackles, 5.5 for loss, alongside four sacks and a fumble recovery during his time in Tallahassee.
"To the Buff and Seminole nation, I will cherish every moment that I created on Folsom Field and Bobby Bowden Field. These experiences helped build my integrity, sportsmanship, and pursuit of excellence," McLendon wrote. "With that being said, I will be foregoing my last season of College Football and declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft."
It remains to be seen if McLendon is invited to any all-star games or the combine leading up to the NFL Draft in April.
READ MORE: ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit Goes Off on Florida State Fan in Twitter Tirade
Stick with NoleGameday for more coverage of Florida State football throughout the 2023 season.
