Three Alabama players to turn pro early

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TUSCALOOSA, Ala., Jan. 11 (UPI) -- Running back Eddie Lacy and two of his teammates announced Friday they would leave the University of Alabama and enter the NFL draft.

Cornerback Dee Milliner and right tackle D.J. Fluker will join Lacy in moving to the professional ranks after being a part of back-to-back national championship teams.

Alabama captured its second straight national crown and its third in four years with a 42-14 rout of Notre Dame last Monday.

Lacy rushed for 140 yards and scored twice in the national championship game. He picked up 1,322 yards with 17 touchdowns during the season.

Milliner is considered one of the top cornerbacks in the nation, having recorded 54 tackles with two interceptions during the campaign.

Fluker started every game for Alabama this season as a red shirt junior. He helped block for two 1,000-yard rushers in 2012.

"They've been good teammates to the players that they've played with," Alabama Coach Nick Saban said during a news conference announcing the departures. "They've set a good example with their leadership and they've certainly been very, very effective performers."