Pryor Ruled Eligible, but Will Sit Five Games

Added on Aug 18, 2011 by Scott in

NFL

In a precedent-setting move by Commissioner Roger Goodell, the NFL has ruled ex-Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor eligible for next Monday’s Supplemental Draft, but it comes with a major stipulation. The five-game suspension that Pryor would’ve served in college will carry over into the regular season should he be signed by an NFL team.

Pryor intended to return to the Buckeyes in 2011 amidst an NCAA investigation involving, among other violations, the exchange of memorabilia for cash and tattoos. That all changed when head coach Jim Tressel stepped down in May. A week later, Pryor announced his collegiate career was over, and he would pursue entering the Supplemental Draft.

The NFL’s stance is Pryor was attempting to manipulate the draft by skipping his senior season and the suspension in order to resume his playing days without threat of penalty. So, it amounts to a good news, bad news situation for Pryor. He’s allowed in the NFL, but will still sit five games, even though he’s no longer enrolled at Ohio State.

Pryor can practice and play in the preseason, but once the real games begin, he will be barred from team activities. He will hold a Pro Day this Saturday for those franchises interested in selecting him. If chosen, it’s assumed he will go in the fourth- or fifth-round.

The question remains which teams will give him a chance. Jim Tressel was spotted in Browns training camp earlier this week, arousing speculation he was bending GM Mike Holmgren’s ear. The Bills, Raiders and Redskins are also possible landing spots.

Wherever he ends up, it’s doubtful he will see an NFL field in 2011. Pryor is less polished than Cam Newton as a passer. Nevertheless, his size and athleticism is tantalizing to professional talent evaluators. At this point, he’s nothing more than a project player.

Source: NFL.com