Wisconsin junior running back P.J. Hill has decided to turn pro.The three-year starter battled injuries throughout his Wisconsin career, but still managed just short of 4,000 yards, good for third on the school's all-time rushing list behind Ron Dayne and Anthony Davis.
The Wisconsin State Journal speculates that 770 carries over three years was simply enough for Hill. That's a lot of wear and tear on a body that has also dealt with a lot of injuries over the years. There's also the matter of John Clay being on the roster. Clay has the look of a stronger, faster version of Hill. He looked very good in a complimentary role in 2008 and should step in as the unquestioned starter by the end of 2009 fall camp, if not earlier.
Hill made it clear that it's just time for him to move on.
"I just feel the time is right for me to take the next step in my career," Hill said. "I would like to thank my teammates, coaches and the Badger fans for the great experience I had during my time at UW."I'm biased, but I think Hill has a puncher's chance of making it in the NFL. A lot of his draft prospects will hinge on what scouts think of his speed and the injuries he's suffered. He's also going to have show more potential as a receiver than he was allowed to show in Wisconsin's offense.
