Andrew Luck and the 2011 NFL Draft: Why Staying at Stanford Isn't an Option

Andrew Luck is preparing to lead Stanford into the Orange Bowl in the final game of the Cardinal’s season. When looking at Luck’s potential, he should consider this his last game at the collegiate level.

If Luck chooses to leave Stanford, he’ll be the first quarterback selected, if not the first player selected, in April’s NFL Draft.

So, what’s the problem?

Stanford head coach Jim Harbaugh said in a recent interview with Sports Illustrated’s Peter King that he believes Luck is leaning more towards returning to school next year than entering the NFL draft.

If this is the case, Luck is making a big mistake.

The Cardinal signal-caller and Heisman Award runner-up should look due north for the perfect example of why staying in school is not always the best decision. Washington quarterback Jake Locker returned to school this year after a season that made him a projected early draft pick only to drop undoubtedly on draft boards across the country.

If Luck does opt to stay at Stanford, he’d be risking injury and a drop in the draft. As it stands now, it’s as good as it gets for Luck, who has led the Cardinal to an 11-1 record and a Pac-10 championship game. With a win over Virginia Tech in the Orange Bowl, Luck and his 3,051 yards and 28 touchdowns could sail off into the sunset as a legend. Leaving now would help Luck avoid the risk of injury and secure him the highest amount possible when looking at his first professional contract.

The situation simply can’t get any better for Andrew Luck. He is considered the top-ranked quarterback in the draft and will perhaps be the No. 1 overall pick.

The last thing Luck should do is return to Stanford next year.