COLUMBUS, Ohio — Middletown High School graduate Jalin Marshall joined a growing list of Ohio State Buckeyes who are taking their talents to the NFL instead of playing their final year or years of eligibility, The Journal-News reported.
The hybrid back turned wide receiver Marshall, who played quarterback for Middletown, announced on Twitter on Monday afternoon he will forgo his last two seasons of eligibility to enter the NFL draft.
Go Bucks! pic.twitter.com/tXK2nuBU2v
— Jalin Marshall (@JalinMarshall) January 4, 2016
Marshall redshirted as a freshman in 2013 and played a key role in Ohio State’s run to the national title in 2014. As a redshirt sophomore this season, he ranked second on the team with 36 receptions, 477 receiving yards and five touchdowns.
“First I would like to thank God for giving me the ability to play football at this great university,” Marshall said.
Later in his post, Marshall thanked head coach Urban Meyer and wide receivers coach Zach Smith and the entire staff.
“I will always be a Buckeye at heart as this was my dream,” Marshall wrote, “and I will work hard to positively represent Buckeye nation and my hometown wherever I go.”
Earlier Monday, cornerback Eli Apple made the same decision as Marshall. Tyvis Powell and Darron Lee declared their NFL intentions on Sunday. Cardale Jones and Joey Bosa are also leaving.
Ezekiel Elliot said he planned to leave Ohio State after an ugly loss, but he later said "I take back everything I said," about the coaches and the program. It is not yet confirmed if he plans to enter the draft.
