Oklahoma QB Bradford to return for junior season
NORMAN, OKLAHOMA (TICKER) —Projected as a possible top pick in this year’s NFL draft, Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford announced Wednesday that he will return to the Sooners next season.
Although just a sophomore, the 21-year-old Bradford was regarded by many scouts as the most NFL-ready quarterback had he entered the draft.
The Oklahoma City native paced the Football Bowl Subdivision this past season with 50 touchdowns while passing for 4,721 yards - the third-best mark in the FBS.
“After looking at all the information and weighing the pros and cons of both, I think that it is in my best interests to come back to Oklahoma for my junior season,” he said during a news conference.
Bradford led an offense that scored an NCAA-record 702 points while becoming the first team in 89 years to record 60 or more points in five straight games.
The Sooners routed Missouri, 62-21, in the Big 12 Conference championship game to win their third straight league title.
However, Bradford was held in check by Florida in the BCS title game, passing for only 256 yards and throwing two interceptions in the Sooners’ 24-14 loss.
Overall, Wednesday was a good day for Oklahoma fans still reeling from the Sooners’ loss to Florida.
Earlier in the day, Sooners junior offensive tackle Trent Williams also announced that he would be back next season.
The 6-5, 308-pound Williams told ESPN.com that he was influenced by the defeat to Florida.
“I just want to win,” he said. “I have been left with a sour taste in my mouth. Not a lot of people win a championship and I want to win a championship. I also promised my mom I would graduate. And I think I can improve my draft stock.”
