Two Words For Streeter; Stay Put

Miami Hurricanes wide receiver Tommy Streeter is the latest to have ‘going pro’ talk surrounding his future status. Streeter, who originally stated this past week that he’d return for his senior season, seems to be wavering.

According to Manny Navarro of the Miami Herald, Streeter informed his parents that he wants to make the leap, but after a sit-down with head coach Al Golden, is at least pondering the decision.

Golden and staff seem to think Streeter will be a fourth or fifth round pick, which seems logical after one year as a starter and still appearing to be a work in progress.

Golden mentioned weeks back that Streeter is just now starting to catch balls with his hands, as opposed his body like earlier in the season. Strides are being made, but a potential fourth- or fifth-rounder in spring 2012 could easily be a polished sure first-rounder with one more year in college.

Streeter had 46 catches, 811 yards and eight touchdowns this past season, en route to a 6-6 season for the Canes. He’s on track to earning a degree in sports administration by May and personally feels it’s time to move on.

NFL teams will certainly be all over Streeter’s 6-foot-5, 217-pound frame. He’s also a sharp kid, has character and is the type of guy that will thrive at the next level. Still, he’s not ready and would be better suited to come back to Miami for one more season.

Something definitely doesn’t add up here and you have to wonder what has Streeter feeling “ready” when a week ago he was jazzed to return. Honestly it sounds like high school, when the seniors are moving on a kid who was tight with guys from that class is now no longer looking forward to his senior year.

Streeter came in with the class of 2008, but redshirted his freshman season. Now all his buddies are moving on. Northwestern teammates like Sean Spence and Jacory Harris, also his cousin through marriage and life-long football brother.

The Herald’s Susan Miller Degnan touched on the bond between these three, and their fathers, over Thanksgiving and with Streeter’s closest confidants moving on, seems he has the itch, too.

Of course that’s just speculation, but should that be the case it’s further proof that the senior wideout still has some growing to do.

When your head coach and your father have openly stated that it’s in your best interest to return to school, consider that the closest thing to a no-brainer as you’re going to get in this life.

Streeter could head to the NFL, land with a team and eventually have a solid career. What he is most-likely feeling right now, entering a senior season without lifelong teammates – it pales in comparison to the reality of fourth-round money over first-round money.

Twentysomething emotions versus real-world adult decisions. Here’s hoping Streeter heeds the advice of his elders.

Making the early leap is sensible only if you’re a guaranteed first rounder. Second round? A personal choice, depending on the situation and individual. Third or lower? One more season of Saturdays instead of Sundays is a must.

Choose wisely number eight. – C.B.

(Update: Rumors are going around Sunday night that defensive lineman Marcus Forston will declare for the NFL Draft, as well. Nothing official has come to light as of yet, but it would definitely say a lot for that 2008 class if there’s a mass exodus of non-first round talent. Stay tuned.) 

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