Mel Tucker shares message for Kenneth Walker III after draft decision
Kenneth Walker III was Mel Tucker’s first big success story at Michigan State. After the star running back declared for the NFL Draft Thursday, the coach had a message for his departing standout.
Walker transferred to Michigan State this season after two years at Wake Forest. He burst onto the scene for the Spartans, ranking second in the nation in rushing yards and winning the Doak Walker Award.
Thursday afternoon, Walker announced he was opting out of Michigan State’s Peach Bowl matchup with Pitt to declare for the NFL Draft. After Walker’s announcement, Tucker shared a note for Walker on Twitter.
“I want to congratulate Ken for all of his success and thank him for taking a chance on us,” Tucker wrote. “From the day he set foot on campus in January, he has done nothing but work extremely hard and represent Michigan State University with class.
“He quickly earned the respect of his teammates and coaches, and they were happy to share in his success and accolades. He is a special player and I’m proud of everything he was able to achieve this season. K9 will always be a Spartan Dawg.”
Michigan State star Kenneth Walker III declares for NFL Draft
Kenneth Walker III broke out for Michigan State this year after transferring from Wake Forest. Now, he’s taking his talents to the next level.
Walker announced Thursday he’s opting out of the Spartans’ Peach Bowl matchup with Pitt to declare for the 2022 NFL Draft. With his announcement, he wrote a message for Spartan Nation on his Twitter.
“It has been a true honor to represent Michigan State University and wear the Green and White,” Walker wrote. “I am beyond grateful to Coach Tucker and the entire staff for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to shine under their new leadership. As the regular season has come to a close, I would like to announce that I have decided to forgo playing in the Peach Bowl to begin preparation for the NFL Draft.
“I would like to thank God, my family, teammates, fans and all my coaches over the years for helping me become the player I am today. I will forever be a Spartan Dawg.”
Walker had an amazing season for Michigan State this year and brought home the Doak Walker Award for his performance. He ranks second in the nation with 136.3 rushing yards per game and found the end zone 18 times.