Hartline To Enter NFL Draft

COLUMBUS, Ohio—Wide receiver Brian Hartline announced Wednesday that he will enter his name into the 2009 NFL draft.

Hartline issued the following statement:

“I am thrilled to declare my eligibility for the National Football League draft.

“Everyone involved within The Ohio State University football program has done a tremendous job for me.  I want to thank all of them, particularly Coach Tressel, for helping me to succeed as both a student and an athlete during my time here.

“I would especially like to thank the media and the fans of Ohio for being great to me and to my family throughout my career.

“I have had an outstanding experience at OSU and am thankful for the support I continue to receive.  I now look forward to testing myself against the top competitors in the National Football League.”

Hartline, a product of GlenOak High School in North Canton, Ohio, recorded 90 catches for 1,449 yards during his Ohio State career, scoring 13 touchdowns (one on a 90-yard punt return). He is scheduled to graduate in June with a bachelor’s degree in communications.