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Two Utes to turn pro

Mon 12th, January 2009

Salt Lake City, UT (Sports Network) - Utah sophomore defensive end Paul Kruger and junior defensive back Sean Smith announced on Monday their intention to enter the NFL draft.

Both players were first-team All-Mountain West selections for the Utes, who finished the season 13-0 after upending Alabama, 31-17, in the Sugar Bowl. Utah completed the campaign 11th in the nation in rushing defense and 12th in scoring, and held the Crimson Tide to a meager 31 yards rushing in the victory.

Kruger led Utah with 16 1/2 tackles for a loss and 7 1/2 sacks. He racked up 61 total tackles, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and one interception.

"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," Kruger said in a statement. "Now it is my journey to pursue another lifelong dream which is to become a professional football player."

Smith led the Utes and tied for the conference lead with five picks, including one for a touchdown. He also registered 46 tackles, one sack and a forced fumble.

"We appreciate Paul and Sean's hard work and dedication to the University of Utah football program," Whittingham said. "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."