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The University of Utah Athletics
Kruger, Smith Announce Intent to Enter NFL Draft
1/12/2009 12:00 AM | Football
Jan. 12, 2009
SALT LAKE CITY-- Utah defenders Paul Kruger and Sean Smith have relinquished their remaining NCAA eligibility to enter the 2009 NFL Draft. Kruger, a 6-5, 265-pound sophomore defensive end, and Smith a 6-3, 214-pound junior defensive back, were first-team all-conference selections for the No. 2-ranked Utes. Kruger leaves with two years of college eligibility remaining, while Smith had one year left to play.
In a statement issued last night, Kruger said, "This past year I have been honored to be a part of this very special group of teammates and coaches at the University of Utah. I have cherished what has been my amazing college experience. Finishing this 2008 football season undefeated and having the privilege to get to play under someone as special as coach Kyle Whittingham has been a lifelong dream fulfilled. Now it is my journey to pursue another lifelong dream which is to become a professional football player in the National Football League."
Kruger and Smith are currently in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., preparing for the draft at the Perfect Competition training center.
Upon learning of the duo's decision, Whittingham said, "We appreciate Paul and Sean's hard work and dedication to the University of Utah football program. They have been instrumental to our success and, although we are sorry to see them leave, we wish them nothing but the best in their NFL endeavors. They will always be a part of the Utah football family."
Kruger and Smith anchored one of the best defenses in the nation in 2008. The 13-0 Utes ranked 11th in rushing defense (99.2) and total defense (289.2), and 12th in scoring defense (17.2). In the season finale, Utah held an Alabama team that came into the game averaging 196.5 rushing yards per game to a meager 31 yards. The Utes nearly halved Alabama's point production as well. The Tide's 17 points against Utah was 14 below its season average.
Kruger led the Utes in 2008 in tackles for loss (16.5) and sacks (7.5). Those totals ranked second and third, respectively in the Mountain West Conference. Kruger also contributed 61 tackles, an interception (which he returned 30 yards), seven pass breakups, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.
Smith's led Utah and tied for the league lead with five interceptions, one which he returned one for a touchdown. His 151 yards on interception returns led the league. Smith also led Utah in pass breakups with nine and had 46 tackles, two tackles for loss (one a sack) and a forced fumble.
In Utah's 31-17 Sugar Bowl victory over Alabama, Kruger and Smith combined for 11 tackles. Each had a tackle for loss, with Smith forcing a fumble on a 10-yard sack.
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