Kenny Lawler Declares for 2016 NFL Draft: Latest Comments and Reaction

Not only will the California Golden Bears have to replace their starting quarterback, Jared Goff, they're also losing one of their best wide receivers after Kenny Lawler confirmed he's entering the NFL draft.

Lawler announced his decision on Twitter Tuesday night.

"Making this decision has not been easy as I have had so many great experiences and I have built so many terrific relationships and friendships at Cal," he wrote in his statement. "The last four years of my life have been incredible and I wouldn't be in the position I am today without the support from all of you!"

Golden Bears head coach Sonny Dykes also praised Lawler for his work at Cal, per Kyle Bonagura of ESPN.com:

Cal's offense will look a lot different in 2016. As expected, Goff threw his name into the 2016 draft, and wideouts Bryce Treggs and Trevor Davis are both seniors. Dykes is a bright offensive mind, but he'll have a hard time repeating the team's success from this past season.

The departure of Goff likely played a big role in Lawler's decision, but it's still somewhat of a surprise to see him leave college early. Bleacher Report's Matt Miller didn't list Lawler among his top 100 prospects in his most recent big board, and in his section highlighting the top wideouts, Miller considered Lawler his "biggest faller." CBS Sports projects Lawler as a second- or third-round pick.

With a strong senior season, Lawler might have boosted his draft stock a bit. Still, he could easily be a Day 2 selection, and his impressive athleticism is bound to impress NFL personnel during Cal's pro day and the scouting combine.