After leading the Trojans in rushing the past two seasons, USC running back Javorius “Buck” Allen will enter the 2015 NFL Draft. In 2014, Allen rushed for 1,489 yards and 11 touchdowns but he also proved he’s a weapon at catching the ball out of the backfield as well. The junior recorded 41 receptions for 458 yards and a touchdown.
The Florida native rushed for over 100 yards in nine of the Trojans 13 games this season. He spoke about his decision to leave USC early.
“This was a tough decision for me. I went home to Florida and talked it over with my family,” said Allen. “I am proud to have been the first one in my family to have gone to college, and I’ve been blessed to say I played football in college. Now I’m ready to take it to the next level. Every kid dreams of this moment.”
Allen is the third Trojan to declare for the draft, joining defensive end Leonard Williams and wide receiver Nelson Agholar.
In Steve Sarkisian’s first year as USC’s head coach, the Trojans finished 9-4 and 6-3 in the Pac-12. It’s not going to be easy replacing the team’s top rusher and top receiver to the NFL, but the Trojans have a proven track record in replacing quality talent.
“Buck is a true Trojan and we wish him well. He is not only a good football player, but a fine young man,” Sarkisian stated. “We are grateful for what he did at USC. We asked a lot of Buck this year and he came through with an All-Pac-12 season. We know he can do more of the same in the NFL.”
Allen is projected to be selected in the first three rounds of the upcoming draft.
*Section Photo credit to Harry How, Getty Images; Featured Photo (above) credit to Jake Roth, USA Today Sports.
