Top NFL prospect Justin Herbert returning to Oregon for senior year
The 2019 NFL Draft just lost arguably its top quarterback prospect.
Oregon standout Justin Herbert announced Wednesday he will delay his jump to the professional ranks and return to the school for his senior season.
There was one more present under the tree. #GoDucks pic.twitter.com/ALeRv0zc1G
— Oregon Football (@oregonfootball) December 26, 2018
The news is a major boost for the Ducks, who are coming off an 8-4 record and could be in contention for the Pac-12 title with Herbert staying.
The loss of Herbert is a significant blow to QB-needy teams in what was already considered one of the weaker classes in recent memory. The Oakland Raiders, New York Giants, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Jacksonville Jaguars are all projected to have a top-10 pick and could've selected Herbert as their new franchise passer in the first round.
Dwayne Haskins will now likely be considered the premier passer in the upcoming draft; Drew Lock and Will Grier potentially earn first-round value thanks to the lack of options at the position.
With the Redbox Bowl against Michigan State still to be played, Herbert has racked up 2,985 yards with 28 touchdowns and eight interceptions this season. He added another 173 yards and two scores on the ground.