USC Trojans CB Adoree' Jackson declares for draft

USC All-American cornerback Adoree' Jackson, one of the most versatile players in college football, announced Monday he will forgo his senior season and enter the 2017 NFL Draft.

"Forever A Trojan. Thank You and Love you," Jackson wrote on his Twitter account, along with the announcement.

"After the Rose Bowl, I had many thoughts running through my head. What was on my mind was that nothing is guaranteed in life and to take advantage of every opportunity that is put in front of you. With that being said, I would like to announce that I have decided to forgo my final season of eligibility and enter the 2017 NFL draft.

"It's been an incredible three years playing for one of the greatest traditions in college football. I made the best decision of my life when I chose to come to USC, and finishing it off with a Rose Bowl win is one of the best ways I could have ever hoped for it to end."

Jackson won the Jim Thorpe Award in his 2016 junior season as the nation's top defensive back. He was named the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year.

Jackson is rated as the 55th-best prospect and eighth at the cornerback position by NFLDraftScout.com.

The 5-foot-11, 185-pound Jackson was a three-year starter at cornerback, and also played at receiver and made an impact as a dangerous returner with his blazing speed. He finished his career with eight return touchdowns (four punt, four kickoff), 39 catches for 628 yards and six interceptions.

Jackson started every game for the Trojans in 2016, making 55 tackles with five interceptions, 11 pass breakups and two fumble recoveries.

Jackson attempted to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics as a long jumper, but he finished 10th at the U.S. track and field Olympic trials.