Joeckel Declares for the NFL Draft

Offensive tackle Luke Joeckel never missed a start in his three year career at Texas A&M. After a successful 11-2 season and a draft projection that has him a Top 5 overall pick in this year's NFL Draft, the Arlington native announced that he will bypass his senior season and head to the NFL.

COLLEGE STATION— Luke Joeckel, a junior left offensive tackle for Texas A&M who won the 2012 Outland Trophy and was a consensus All-American, has decided to forego his senior season for the 2013 NFL draft.

“This was a very difficult decision for me,” Joeckel said as he traveled to Omaha to take part in the Outland Trophy ceremonies. “I have thought long and hard and visited with my family and coaches. I feel it is in my best interest to come out. I appreciate all that Texas A&M has done for me and my family. It is tough to leave a great group of coaches and players, including my twin brother Matt. I know they will have a great season in 2013 and I will remain their biggest fan.”

Joeckel (6-6, 310) came to Texas A&M early from Arlington High School enrolling in January of 2010 to go through spring drills. Joeckel started his very first game as a true freshman at left tackle and started every game of his Aggie career (39 straight) protecting the blind side of Aggie quarterbacks Jerrod Johnson, Ryan Tannehill and 2012 Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel.

In addition to All-America honors as well as All-SEC accolades, Joeckel was named the SEC Jacobs Blocking Trophy recipient in 2012.

“Luke is projected to be one of the top players selected in the overall draft,” Aggie head football coach Kevin Sumlin said. “We appreciate everything he has done for Aggie football and Texas A&M and wish him well in the NFL.”

“I am 27 hours short of my degree from the Mays Business School and I have every intention of finishing as soon as possible,” Joeckel stated. “One thing that is certain, I am an Aggie and will always be an Aggie.”