Bradford's collegiate career is over

NORMAN, Okla., Oct. 25 (UPI) -- Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford announced Sunday his collegiate football career is over and he will undergo shoulder surgery.

Bradford, who has suffered two shoulder injuries this year, said he will have season-ending surgery Wednesday and plans forego his final year of NCAA eligibility to enter the NFL Draft in April.

"I'm up to the challenge," he said.

Bradford, who won the Heisman Trophy in 2008, was knocked out of the first game of the 2009 season against Brigham Young with a sprained shoulder joint. He missed three full games before returning Oct. 10 for a game against Baylor, in which he threw for 389 yards and a touchdown in a victory -- but was injured again the following week in a 16-13 loss to Texas.

"I dreamed about coming to Oklahoma my whole life," Bradford said. "That's the reason I came back for this season. And I came back to play, not sit on the bench. That's the reason I tried to play after the injury. I'm very disappointed that it didn't work out differently."

Bradford threw for 4,270 yards and 50 touchdowns, tops in the nation, during his award-winning season.

"We want Sam to pursue the best option for his recovery and future," Oklahoma Coach Bob Stoops said. "Sam has led us to two Big 12 championships and an appearance in the national title game. He has demonstrated uncommon leadership skills. He is an absolute role model as a student-athlete and loyal teammate."