Here is the statement that Paul Kruger released on Sunday followed by the 3 men who may replace him…....

“I am issuing this statement after much prayer, consideration, and evaluation with my family in announcing that I have decided to forgo my final years of eligibility and enter the 2009 NFL draft. 

This past year I have been honored to be a part of this very special group of teammates and coaches at the UNIVERSITY of UTAH.  I have cherished what has been my amazing college experience.  Finishing this 2008 football season undefeated and having the privilege to get to play under someone as special as coach Kyle Whittingham has been a lifelong dream fulfilled.  Now it is my journey to pursue another lifelong dream which is to become a professional football player in the National Football League.

This decision is one of the toughest that I have ever had to make. As I reflect on the UNIVERSITY of UTAH, my teammates, all of my coaches, the football staff and most importantly the UTES fans… I am filled with humility and deep gratitude. These past years at UTAH have been a tremendous learning and growing experience for me.  I want to thank everyone at the University and all the UTES everywhere for their support.

It is my hope in making this decision that the fans, coaches, teammates, and the UTAH athletic department will continue to support me and my family as I take this next step in attaining my goals.

My heart belongs to UTAH. And I wish continued prosperity and success to my UTAH UTES! “

Yours truly,

Paul Kruger

No surprise here, The guys to replace him are as follows:

Derrick Shelby:

The redshirt freshman from Houston played inside this season due to injuries but is best suited to play at end. He’s 6’3 245 and quick off the ball. His experience inside for a season can only help, does not lack confidence in his abilty.

Dave Kruger:

Paul’s brother is 6’5 265 and built like #11. He didn’t have the strength or technique this past season to play and was red shirted, but he has the abilty to play end and possibly tackle.

James Aiono:

The #1 rated JUCO player in the country by Rivals.com, Aiono is a Murray High grad who signed with the Utes in 2007, but did not qualify. He went to Snow and kept his commitment despite every program in the nation offering him a scholarship. He’s 6’3 285 and could play in or out, but Utah is loaded at DT next season, so he may be in the mix for Kruger’s old spot if he can make the transition.

Overall, despite how good Kruger was, the Utes shouldn’t miss a beat. None of these guys are as athletic as Paul was, but there should not be much of a drop off especially if Aiono is as advertised.