Michigan State cornerback Trae Waynes is declaring early for the NFL draft.
Waynes is a potential first-round draft pick. The All-American corner had three interceptions and eight pass deflections during his junior season.
"Once we got the feedback from the NFL, I talked about things with the coaches and my family, and ultimately decided this is what I wanted to do," Waynes said in a statement. "I have never really paid attention to pre-draft player rankings. In fact, I wasn't even aware that some draft analysts had me rated as the No. 1 corner. So I didn't make my decision based on those ratings, I made it because I have an opportunity to pursue my dream to play pro football. I've dreamt about this since I was a little boy, and I didn't want to miss this chance."
Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio endorsed Waynes' decision.
"Trae is a lock-down corner, who played an important role in our success the last two years," Dantonio said in a statement. "He's an excellent press corner, who's often been isolated against our opponent's top wide receiver. He has great deep-ball judgment and the ability to tackle in space. Physically, Trae has length and great make-up speed."
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Aaron Wilson covers the Ravens for The Baltimore Sun