Tech WR Hill declares early for NFL draft

ATLANTA -- Georgia Tech junior wide receiver Stephen Hill announced today that he will forego his senior season of eligibility and enter the NFL draft.

Hill caught 28 passes for 820 yards in 2011, helping the Yellow Jackets to and 8-5 record and their 15th consecutive bowl bid. Hill, who caught five touchdown passes including one against Utah in the Hyundai Sun Bowl, led all FBS players in yards per reception (29.3).

"This was a life decision," said Hill, a Lithonia (Ga.) native. "I came to the decision after talking with my family. I'm ready to move forward and work on getting better.

"I want to thank the coaching staff for helping me get to this level. I am thankful for Georgia Tech, my professors and definitely, the fans."

Hill was on the preseason watch list for the Biletnikoff Award. He was named the ACC Receiver of the Week on Sept. 6. Phil Steele's publications named him third team All-ACC.

"Stephen feels that he is ready for the NFL and I know that is a dream of his," head coach Paul Johnson said. "I hope that he is drafted high and does well as a professional."

"I love Georgia Tech," Hill said. "I am going to miss my teammates and I wish them well next season and beyond. I hope they bring home an ACC championship next season."