Alabama's Fluker says he's staying in school

Published Dec. 13, 2011 1:34 a.m. ET

foxsports

Alabama right tackle D.J. Fluker says he will return for his senior season.

Fluker released a statement through the athletic department Monday in response to Internet rumors about his plans to enter the NFL draft. The 6-foot-6, 335-pound redshirt sophomore says he wanted ''to go ahead and put all of that to rest and make it clear that my intentions are to stay in school.''

Fluker says he still has a lot to learn as an offensive tackle. He says he's on track to graduate next December, which would fulfill a promise to his mother.

He was one of the nation's most highly rated offensive linemen out of high school and started nine games last season.

The Crimson Tide plays LSU Jan. 9 in New Orleans for the national title.