Charles Cross, projected top-10 pick, forgoes remaining Mississippi State eligibility to enter NFL Draft

Andy Kostka, Mississippi Clarion Ledger
·2 min read
1

In what comes as little surprise, Mississippi State football left tackle Charles Cross announced his intention to forgo the remainder of his eligibility to enter the 2022 NFL Draft.

Cross is one of the best tackles available, and he's projected to be a top-10 selection. As part of his announcement, Cross said he will opt out of the Liberty Bowl on Dec. 28 (5:45 p.m. CT, ESPN) in order to begin preparations for the draft.

The Laurel native earned a place on the All-SEC first team after a standout season, protecting quarterback Will Rogers' blindside.

"It's a blessing," Cross said in November regarding his first-round draft projection. "I feel like every kid's dream is to play in the NFL one day. I'm just trying to stay focused."

MIKE LEACH: Players opting out of bowl games is 'one of the biggest absurdities that I've seen'

DEFENSIVE FOCUS: Mississippi State football's signing day wasn't the flashiest, but the defense turned heads

Cross appeared in three games in 2019 before redshirting that year. But his role increased last year, starting 10 games. He took the next step as a redshirt sophomore, allowing just two sacks and 14 quarterback hurries across 719 pass-blocking snaps.

Cross is the first Bulldogs player to officially opt out of the Liberty Bowl, a decision that rankles coach Mike Leach. Leach said last week that "it’s the most bizarre thing in the world to me" when players opt out of bowl games.

"It’s one of the biggest absurdities that I’ve seen, and it’s selfish, too," Leach said.

Mississippi State found an answer for the left tackle position during the beginning of the early signing period. Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College offensive tackle Percy Lewis signed for the Bulldogs and plans to enroll early. Leach said he hopes Lewis can step in immediately as a factor along the offensive line.

And Mississippi State received a boost when center LaQuinston Sharp earned an extra season of eligibility from the NCAA, maintaining some experience along the line.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Charles Cross forgoes remaining Mississippi State eligibility to enter NFL draft