Mayo expected to enter NFL draft; Foster may follow

By News Sentinel staff

Originally published 10:53 p.m., January 7, 2008
Updated 01:15 a.m., January 7, 2008

The NFL's college advisory committee prompted mixed responses from three Tennessee juniors considering leaving school early.

Linebacker Jerod Mayo was projected to be a late second- or early third-round pick and is expected to forgo his senior season and enter April's NFL draft, a source said.

Tailback Arian Foster was told he likely would be a second-round pick and is still contemplating his decision. Foster is thought to be leaning towards going pro, the source said.

Offensive lineman Anthony Parker was told he'd be a fourth-round pick and is expected to return for his senior season.

Official announcements for the trio are expected this week.

Mayo has yet to meet with UT coach Phillip Fulmer.

Mayo was UT's leading tackler by a wide margin last season with 140 stops. Fellow linebacker Rico McCoy was second with 106.

Foster was UT's leading rusher with 1,193 yards last season, starting all 14 games. With 2,394 rushing yards, Foster is in reach to set the school record held by Travis Henry (1997-2000) with 3,078.

Parker has proven a rock at guard for the Vols, starting 26 games in two seasons for UT on the right and left side. Parker said before the Outback Bowl that he would consider his injury history when making his NFL decision. Parker has dealt with lingering knee issues throughout his career.