Bulaga going pro

To  no one's surprise, Iowa left tackle Bryan Bulaga announced Wednesday night that he will skip his senior season and declare for the 2010 NFL draft.

Bulaga, a 6-6, 315-pounder from Crystal Lake, IL, was the Big Ten 2009 Offensive Lineman of the Year and a first team all-Big Ten selection. 

 “After much deliberation and careful consideration, I have decided to forego my fourth year of college eligibility and enter the upcoming NFL draft," Bulaga said in a statement released by the university. "This was not an easy decision since my Iowa experience has been very positive and rewarding.   The illness (thyroid condition) I was faced with at the beginning of the 2009 season made me realize how important football is in my life and how quickly it can be taken away.  I want to thank Coach (Kirk) Ferentz, Coach (Reese) Morgan and the rest of the Iowa football staff who played a significant role in my development.

"I will always be a Hawkeye and will carry that with me proudly wherever my future takes me.  Thanks to everyone for the support you've always given me.”

 Ferentz made the following statement:

 “Bryan has been a valued team member, well beyond his outstanding play on the field.  I'm very appreciative of his efforts on the team's behalf.  I am confident Bryan will do very well in the years to come and again be a valuable asset to his future team.  We wish him the best and continued success.”

This marks the second straight season the Hawkeye program has had at least one player declare early for the NFL draft.  Running back Shonn Greene left the Hawkeye program following his junior season in 2008 and was a third-round draft selection of the New York Jets.