Maybin makes it official

One year ago, Penn State redshirt sophomore defensive end Aaron Maybin was preparing for spring practice as a second-stringer, this year, he will enter the spring preparing to play at the next level. Maybin officially announced on Tuesday that he would forgo his final two years of eligibility at Penn State to enter the 2009 NFL Draft.

Maybin made the announcement during a motivational speech to students at his former high school, Mt. Hebron in Ellicott City, Md.

"Leaving Penn State was one of the most difficult decisions I've faced," Maybin stated in a release from LEAP Management LLC in State College. "I received so much valuable advice and counsel during this process. In the end, I've decided this is an opportunity I would like to pursue... I appreciate the opportunity given to me by the Penn State coaching staff and the enthusiastic support of the fans."

Maybin was an unlikely force for the Nittany Lions in 2008, as he emerged from backup to the team leader in sacks and tackles for loss.

He made the most of his opportunity, recording 12 sacks, a number which ranked him fourth in the country in the category, and 19 tackles for loss, which ranked sixth nationally.

The 6-foot-4, 245-pound Maybin also forced a team-high three fumbles and recorded two sacks each against Coastal Carolina, Temple and Wisconsin.

Maybin was a finalist for the Chuck Bednarik defensive player of the year award, as well as the Ted Hendricks Award, which is given to the nation's top defensive end. He was named a first team All-American by the Associated Press, the Football Writers Association of America and the Walter Camp Football Foundation, and was a second team All-American selection by SI.com.

The 2009 NFL Draft will be held April 25 and 26 at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

LEAP Management LLC is a professional athlete services corporation co-founded by former Penn State and NFL standout, Lavar Arrington.