Clemson's Ferrell declares for NFL draft

Clemson defensive end Clelin Ferrell announced Thursday that he will enter the 2019 NFL Draft, where he is projected to be a first-round pick.

Ferrell was named a first-team All-American and the ACC Defensive Player of the Year this season after leading Clemson with 11.5 sacks and 18 tackles for loss as a redshirt junior. He also won the Ted Hendricks Award, presented to the best defensive end in the country.

The 21-year-old was a key piece of the Tigers' dominant defense, which helped propel the team to two national titles in three years.

Ferrell joins fellow Clemson defensive linemen Christian Wilkins, Dexter Lawrence, and Austin Bryant in the draft. Wilkins and Lawrence are also expected to be first-round selections.