Do Seniors have to declare for the Draft this year?

El Paso Eagle · January 6, 2021

I know in normal years once their eligibility is up it's a given they move on. However, this year, and let's use Novil for abn example -

If he stays in school but does not get an NFL offer (draft or Free agent) can he simply return if he so chooses?

With every player having this years beginning eligibility back if he chooses, can any Senior that does not get drafted simply wait until after the draft to say they are coming back or is there a deadline for them to declare?

jdennis82 · January 6, 2021

At least one source is assuming all players will have to formally declare for the draft...

Link: https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2021-nfl-draft-underclassmen-tracker-college-football-players-leaving-early/

Quote

How are things different in 2021?

The NCAA has granted each player another year of eligibility, adding complication to the process. Under normal rules, a player has five calendar years in which they can play up to four years of any sport. However, this new rule now means a player can play a fifth year, and their eligibility is spread across six calendar years and not five.

Therefore, heading into the 2021 NFL Draft, all players will have college eligibility remaining, essentially making them underclassmen, and will need to declare by the deadline. Additionally, NFL combine invites for senior prospects that have not yet declared will likely be delayed.