TicketsJan. 14, 2008
CINCINNATI -- All-America cornerback Mike Mickens has decided to stay at University of Cincinnati for his senior year, head coach Brian Kelly announced today.
"We submitted the paperwork requesting that Mike be judged by the NFL's advisory committee," head coach Brian Kelly said. "The committee gathered information and projected him a third-round grade. These projections are not always accurate, but they gave Mike an opportunity to learn about the process and what he needs to do to prepare for life after UC."
Mickens, a 6-0, 190-pounder who has started for three years with the Bearcats, said that requesting a draft grade did not mean he was looking to jump to the NFL.
"I have my grade back and talked to my family about what is best for me at this time," Mickens said. "I feel like I have received good advice and I am in a good situation at Cincinnati. I enjoy being able to have my family and friends support me and watch our home games.
Named to the FWAA All-America Team, Mickens captured first-team all-BIG EAST Conference honors in 2007, recording 53 tackles and six interceptions. Mickens returned two picks for touchdown during the season for the nation's top defense in terms of takeaways (42) and interceptions (26).
"We have a great schedule next year, which should challenge us," Mickens added. "I'm on track to graduate next spring, which will make my mom happy."
January 15 is the deadline for players to declare their early entry into the 2008 NFL Draft.
Cincinnati returns 16 starters in 2008, including all-Americans Terrill Byrd, and Kevin Huber.
To make season tickets deposits for 2008, please call the UC Athletics Ticket Office at 1-877-CATS-TIX, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Orders can also be placed online by logging on to www.CATSTIX.com
All 2008 season ticket patrons will enjoy a host of benefits, starting with events leading up to BEARCAT BOWL II, UC's spring football game, on April 26 and continuing throughout the summer and into the fall. These incentives will be spread over three tiers, based on the date of ticket purchase.