The University of Oregon today announced that their Heisman Trophy finalist running back, LaMichael James, will return to the Ducks for his senior season and forego the 2011 NFL draft. James cited academics as the prime reason for his return:
I came to the University of Oregon to get a quality education as well as to play football, and I feel I have yet to complete that goal.
According to Register-Guard reporter Rob Moseley, James made the decision after reviewing his NFL pre-draft evaluation with head coach Chip Kelly. Most reports indicated James would be a 2nd or 3rd round pick at best.
This is welcome news for Oregon fans as the Ducks will look to reprise their 12-0 regular season in 2011. You can read the full release here.
