Texas Tech WR Erik Ezukanma Declares For 2022 NFL Draft
Texas Tech’s top offensive weapon will not return for 2022, as Erik Ezukanma declared for the 2022 NFL Draft and is not expected to play in the Liberty Bowl.
The redshirt junior was a dangerous playmaker for the Red Raiders over the past three seasons. Even with three regime changes in his time in Lubbock, Ezukanma totaled 138 receptions for 2,165 and 15 touchdowns, adding 10 carries for 138 yards and two scores on the ground in 2021.
He announced his decision on Twitter, alongside a message to all of his teammates, coaches, and family, thanking them for their support throughout his career.
Ezukanma is projected by many to be a borderline first-rounder, with elite length and size to match his athleticism he could be a threat on all levels of the field in the NFL. At 6’3″ 220-pounds, he moves with a fluidity that is hardly matched by athletes his size and he shows explosive ability with the ball in his hands. If he can have a great pro-day and/or combine, it would not be surprising to see No. 13’s name called late on day one or early into day two.
With Ezukanma gone, new offensive coordinator Zach Kittley will have to find somewhere else to funnel targets next year. The Red Raiders also lose super-senior Kaylon Geiger, who runs out of eligibility after the bowl game. There are still promising pieces in the receiver room though and a few names coming in could provide some depth. A name to watch is sophomore Miles Price, who showed flashes this season and could be dangerous in Kittley’s system.
Texas Tech plays Mike Leach and Mississippi State on December 28th in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl. That game kicks off at 5:45 p.m. CT and the Mississippi State Bulldogs are currently favored by 9.5 points.
