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OU confirms that S Tony Jefferson and WR Kenny Stills will declare for the NFL Draft
— Jake Trotter (@Jake_Trotter) January 7, 2013
Bob Stoops: "We appreciate the contributions that Tony and Kenny have made. We wish them both the best as they pursue the NFL."
— Jake Trotter (@Jake_Trotter) January 7, 2013
It appears as if the earlier reports were in fact true as Jake Trotter has been able to confirm through the university that both Tony Jefferson and Kenny Stills will be foregoing their senior seasons.
Both players respective NFL futures had been speculated on even prior to the end of this most recent season and now both seem to have made a final decision.
On paper, Jefferson would appear to be the bigger loss of the two (though that's not meant to disrespect Stills) given how significant of a role he played in the Oklahoma defense this year. Jefferson's backup was a former walk-on and a senior himself so his starting job is completely up for grabs heading into the 2013 season.
Stills was also a valuable contributor to the offense, but if there is any position (outside of running back) where an early departure wouldn't necessarily hurt the Sooners it was at wide receiver. That said, his loss will be felt next season if for no other reason than from an experience standpoint.
It was a pretty darn good run for the 'Cali Trio' as they were known around Norman. Both Jefferson and Stills accomplished a lot for this program both on and off the field. Hopefully they will have long and successful careers in the NFL.