Reggie Nelson's Mom Says He's Headed to the NFL

Florida's Reggie Nelson hasn't made it official, but his Mother, Mary Lakes expects the junior safety to leave the Gators in January for the NFL Draft. "I think he's going to walk," Lakes told FLORIDA TODAY. "I think he's decided he's going to say, 'I'm going to go give the NFL a try.' " Tuesday, Nelson was named as one of three finalists for the Jim Thorpe Award that goes to the nation's top defensive back.

Reggie Nelson Hounded by Agents to Turn Pro

Florida's Reggie Nelson is an impact player at safety. He is one of 11 semifinalists for the Thorpe Award, which goes to the nation's top defensive back. The junior faces a difficult decision on whether to turn pro or return to UF and agents are hoping he enters the NFL draft. Nelson has been hounded so much by agents that he finally had to stop answering his cell phone. Nelson's mother has battled cancer for several years, and that will likely weigh on his decision to leave. If he enters the draft, he'll be a first day selection and is currently ranked as the #4 safety at FF.

Gators Talented Juniors Could Go Pro

Urban Meyer commented on Florida's talented juniors on defense, saying ''If you're a first-rounder, you've got to go (to the NFL)''. Safety Reggie Nelson, linebacker Brandon Siler and defensive end Jarvis Moss are projected to be high picks if they decide to leave.

Ray McDonald's Stock is Soaring

Florida's Ray McDonald is shooting up draft boards after his excellent play this season. Scouts were down on McDonald after a knee injury in 2005, but he's proving healthy and dominating on Florida's defense. McDonald can play defensive end or tackle and will be a first rounder with a successful post-season (Senior Bowl, Combine, Pro Day).