Washington receiver Ja’Lynn Polk to enter NFL draft،
Washington star wide receiver Ja'Lynn Polk is leaving school to declare for the NFL draft, he told ESPN on Tuesday.
Polk played an outsized role in the nation's No. 2 passing attack, catching 69 passes for 1,159 yards.
“For me, it was definitely a tough decision to leave my brothers, just knowing the opportunities to be able to do another race [at the national title] next year again,” Polk told ESPN in a phone interview. “But I think it's the right time.”
Polk has recorded seven 100-yard receiving games in 2023, including a remarkable 122-yard performance against Texas in the Sugar Bowl. Polk is projected as a top-100 prospect by scouts and is expected to be selected on the second day of the NFL Draft.
He said it was difficult to make a decision in such a tight time frame because players in the national title game only have a week before they have to decide on Jan. 15. Polk said Washington's coaches were supportive of the decision and grateful for their mentorship during the two seasons Kalen DeBoer's staff was in Seattle.
“I’m grateful for this moment,” Polk said. “I'm grateful for the opportunity to play for the University of Washington and have lasting relationships with guys in this locker room. It's truly an honor to have the W on my chest and go playing for Husky Nation. It's just been great, but I'm ready for this next journey.
The 6-foot-2, 204-pound receiver is adept at making contested catches and is confident his abilities will translate to the next level. Polk said Washington's offense, led by DeBoer and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, featured plenty of options and safety leverage-based routes. This should make his transition to the NFL easier.
“I would say the player they are signing is a monster,” Polk said. “I'm a real guy. No matter what, wherever you need me, I'll be there. I'll coach, I'll be a great leader and I'll make plays for the guys next to me. They are going to get a great person, a truly inspired person, willing to come to work every day. I love football.
Polk played four seasons of college football and had at least one year of eligibility remaining after starting his career during the 2020 COVID-19 season and playing in just three games due to injury in 2021.
He began his career at Texas Tech in 2020 and transferred to Washington for this shortened 2021 season.
Polk's career ended Monday night in the national title game with a loss to Michigan, which he said he would use as motivation.
“I’m ready to start training and get the ball rolling,” Polk said. “I'm excited. Losing this great, it makes me want more. I want to go back and get better and do good for my team, whatever it takes at the next level. I'm excited and blessed and honored to hold this position.
