Oklahoma's Ronnell Lewis Headed To NFL Draft

The University of Oklahoma and football player Ronnell Lewis announced Thursday that Lewis has decided to officially forego his senior season at OU to enter the 2012 NFL Draft.

"After meeting with my family and coaches and gathering input from various resources, including the NFL, I've carefully weighed my options and have decided to forego my senior year at OU and enter the 2012 NFL Draft," said Lewis in a statement. "My time at OU has produced many fond memories and I hope to keep close ties with my friends, teammates, coaches, football staff and everyone at OU who has helped me along the way."

"Ronnell leaves with our best wishes. He managed several challenges while playing here, but always worked hard and gave us his very best effort," said OU head coach Bob Stoops.

The Dewar, Okla. native racked up 59 tackles for the Sooners this season including 33 solo take downs and 5 sacks.

"I'd like to personally thank the University of Oklahoma and Coach Stoops for giving me the opportunity to be a Sooner and play on Saturdays in front of the best fans in the country," said Lewis. "Without the support of my coaches, my family and so many others, I wouldn't be where I am today."

"He has the skill to be a successful NFL player and we feel he'll do well there. As with any of our players who reach for the top level, he won't have any bigger fans than those of us at OU," added Stoops.

Lewis finishes his career at Oklahoma with 120 tackles, 11 sacks and 18 tackles for loss over three seasons.

"I'll definitely miss my time in Norman, but I'm looking forward to what the future holds," added Lewis. "Boomer Sooner!"