Oregon defensive lineman Armstead files paperwork for NFL Draft

Published Jan. 14, 2015 6:32 a.m. ET

foxsports

Fresh off playing for the national championship, Oregon junior defensive lineman Arik Armstead filed paperwork to make himself eligible for the 2015 NFL Draft.

"After three years preparing with my teammates and coaches, I feel I'm ready to test myself at the next level," Armstead said in a statement. "All the support I've received from Coach Pellum and Coach Aiken, the rest of the Oregon coaches and staff and in my academics has prepared me to make this jump.

"I've had an awesome three years here, and I'm so happy I made the decision to be a Duck. I want to thank my coaches, the academic support and athletic training staffs, the Eugene community and Duck fans everywhere for supporting me throughout my three years here. I'll always be a Duck."

Armstead is reportedly considered a potential first-round pick. His 5½ tackles for a loss as a junior was second on the team. In Monday's title game, he tied for the team lead against Ohio State with nine tackles, a career best. He also recovered a fumble to set up a field goal that pulled Oregon within 21-20 in the third quarter before Ohio State pulled away for the win.

Armstead started 13 games, finishing the season with 46 tackles.