Dunlap Elects for NFL Draft

Florida junior defensive end Carlos Dunlap will declare for the 2010 NFL Draft.

The 6-foot-6, 290-pound defender led the Gators with nine sacks in 2009 and finishes his collegiate career tied for No. 10 on Florida’s all-time sack list with 19.5.

“This took a lot of thought and prayer between me and my family, and we decided that this was the best direction for me to take,” Carlos Dunlap said. “I've loved having the chance to play at Florida for Coach [Urban] Meyer, and playing for Coach Charlie Strong. I wouldn't be the person or the player I am today without them and the other coaches who have helped me along the way.”

Dunlap tallied 38 tackles in 13 games this season and was a force at the line of scrimmage, recording 10.5 tackles for loss and six pass breakups. He was named All-SEC by the SEC coaches, the Associated Press and Sporting News and was a semifinalist for the Lombardi Award.

“Carlos has all of the physical tools to be successful at the next level,” said Meyer. “I believe if he continues to grow and mature he will have a very long career in the NFL. He provided matchup problems for opposing teams and was a big part of our success during the last several years. We wish him the best of luck.”

In his three years at UF, Dunlap was part of two SEC Eastern Division-winning teams, including the 2008 National and SEC Champions. He was the Defensive MVP of the Gators’ 24-14 victory over Oklahoma in the BCS National Championship Game following the 2008 season. In 2007, Dunlap was selected to the SEC Freshman Academic Honor Roll.

Following his performance at the BCS National Championship Game, Dunlap was named Mayor for the Day in his hometown of North Charleston, S.C., on March 13, 2009, which was proclaimed Carlos Dunlap Day. As part of the festivities, Dunlap was presented a key to the city during a pep rally.

The NFL Draft will be held April 22-24 at Radio City Music Hall in New York.