Tallahassee, FL (Sports Network) - Florida State defensive end Bjoern Werner has decided to forego his senior season and enter the 2013 NFL Draft.
Werner, a native of Berlin, Germany, had 13 sacks, 42 tackles -- 18 for a loss -- and eight passes defensed for the Seminoles in 2012, and has compiled 23.5 sacks and 35 TFL in his three years in Tallahassee.
"I'm grateful to (FSU head coach Jimbo) Fisher and Florida State for giving me the opportunity to be a Seminole and play for one of the top college football programs in the country," Werner said. "I've learned so much from the coaches especially Coach (D.J.) Eliot and have been able to play with some of the best players in the country. After sitting down with my wife Denise and gathering as much information, I've decided to move on and enter the NFL draft. I've enjoyed my time at FSU and will cherish the time I spent as a Seminole."
Werner, who had only two years of high school football experience after coming to the U.S. in a student exchange program, was a unanimous selection for the AP All-American first team and was also named the 2012 ACC Defensive Player of the Year. Werner was also a finalist for the Bronko Nagurksi Award.
"I'd like to congratulate Bjoern on his decision to enter the NFL draft," Fisher said. "It's the best decision for him and his family. Not only is he a great football player, but he's an unbelievable person. His leadership on and off the field will impact this program for years to come. I wish him nothing but the best and he will always be remembered as one of the great players in FSU history."
