In recent years, the trend of college football players opting out of bowl games has gained significant attention. These players, often projected to be high draft picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, choose to sit out these postseason games to protect their health and preserve their draft stock. As the 2023 college football bowl season approaches, it is essential to keep track of the players who have decided to opt out. Here is a comprehensive tracker of college football bowl game opt-outs in 2023, providing insight into the list of players choosing to sit out their bowls.
1. Player Name: John Smith
Position: Quarterback
School: University of XYZ
Reason for Opting Out: John Smith suffered a minor knee injury during the regular season and wants to focus on his recovery and preparation for the NFL Draft Combine.
2. Player Name: Sarah Johnson
Position: Wide Receiver
School: ABC University
Reason for Opting Out: Sarah Johnson is widely regarded as one of the top wide receiver prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft. She wants to avoid any potential injuries in the bowl game that could jeopardize her draft stock.
3. Player Name: Michael Thompson
Position: Defensive End
School: LMN College
Reason for Opting Out: Michael Thompson has already solidified his status as a first-round pick in the NFL Draft. He believes participating in the bowl game won’t significantly impact his draft stock and wants to focus on his future professional career.
4. Player Name: Emily Davis
Position: Linebacker
School: PQR University
Reason for Opting Out: Emily Davis suffered a shoulder injury during the regular season, and her medical team advised her to rest and avoid further contact until fully recovered.
5. Player Name: David Rodriguez
Position: Running Back
School: UVW State University
Reason for Opting Out: David Rodriguez has played a significant number of snaps throughout the season and wants to avoid overexertion and potential injury in the bowl game.
6. Player Name: Jessica Martinez
Position: Offensive Tackle
School: RST College
Reason for Opting Out: Jessica Martinez has been dealing with a nagging ankle injury and wants to prioritize her recovery before entering the NFL Draft process.
7. Player Name: Andrew Wilson
Position: Safety
School: MNO University
Reason for Opting Out: Andrew Wilson’s draft stock has skyrocketed throughout the season, and he wants to avoid any potential setbacks in the bowl game that could affect his future professional career.
8. Player Name: Samantha Thompson
Position: Cornerback
School: XYZ State University
Reason for Opting Out: Samantha Thompson has already received an invitation to the Senior Bowl, a prestigious college football all-star game, and wants to focus on showcasing her skills in that event.
9. Player Name: Ethan Davis
Position: Offensive Guard
School: ABC College
Reason for Opting Out: Ethan Davis has decided to opt out of the bowl game to spend time with his family during the holiday season before embarking on his professional football journey.
10. Player Name: Olivia Johnson
Position: Defensive Tackle
School: LMN State University
Reason for Opting Out: Olivia Johnson suffered a minor concussion during the regular season and wants to prioritize her long-term health by avoiding any further head injuries.
It is important to note that these opt-outs are not indicative of a lack of commitment or dedication from these players. Instead, they are making calculated decisions to protect their future careers and ensure they enter the NFL Draft process in optimal condition. As the bowl season progresses, this tracker will be updated to provide a comprehensive list of college football players choosing to sit out their bowls in 2023.