Notre Dame quarterback Ian Book previously announced plans to enter the NFL’s 2021 Draft. He posted a heartfelt farewell message to Notre Dame with a post via Instagram on Wednesday night.
Book went to social media to explain the decision and thank Notre Dame. He leaves Notre Dame as the show’s all-time winning leader and posted the following message on his Instagram account:
“I just arrived in Jacksonville to start my new journey, preparing for the Senior Bowl!
“As I sit here and reflect, some things come to mind.
“I will always carry Notre Dame with me, today and every day from now on. None of this would be possible with Coach Kelly, Coach Rees and the entire medical and football team. I am forever grateful for the faith and trust you have placed in me. I also want to express my deep gratitude to Father Jenkins, Mr. Swarbrick and each of my teachers who were so important to my development.
“My teammates and I will always be connected by the unbreakable bond that comes with wearing that golden helmet, competing and representing Notre Dame.
“My family has been my rock, without all of your heart support there is no way for me to be in this position today.
“Finally, for the entire extended Irish family, I will be forever humble and grateful for all the love and support you have given me. This will never be forgotten. So, it’s not goodbye, it’s just until next time! “
Book guided Notre Dame to a spot in the decisive college football game this season. The year of Fighting Irish ended in the semifinals with a 31-14 loss to Alabama. Book ended his senior season by throwing 2,830 yards with 15 touchdowns and three interceptions. He ended his career at Notre Dame with a 30-5 record as a starter.
The NFL 2021 Draft decision making process is unlike any other before it. Due to the uncertainty surrounding the 2020 university season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, players who have exhausted their eligibility at the university level can still choose to return for the next season.
And on the other side of the conversation, college football saw a record number of dropouts for COVID-19 reasons and to prepare for the NFL Draft. The preseason saw many projected stars choose to move away from the field to prepare, including Penn State’s Micah ParsonsJa’Marr Chase of LSU, Georgia Jamie Newman, Oregon’s Penei Sewell and from Miami Gregory Rousseau. Mid-season dropouts and the decision to skip bowling were also commonplace in 2020.
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Activities such as the NFL Scouting Combine and professional days remain uncertain due to the COVID-19 climate, while the NFL Draft is scheduled to run from April 29 to May 1. Last year’s NFL Draft took place virtually, including Commissioner Roger Goodell announcing the choices at his home. Heisman Trophy Winner Joe Burrow was the No. 1 general choice.