Oklahoma OL Walter Rouse declares for 2024 NFL Draft
Oklahoma offensive lineman Walter Rouse has declared for the 2024 NFL Draft, he announced via social media. He transferred to OU from Stanford and became a key part of the Sooners’ defensive line.
Rouse was an honorable mention All-Big 12 selection this past season, playing mostly at left tackle as he started every game for the Oklahoma. He was a key part of a Sooners offensive line that allowed 1.5 sacks per game this year.
All told, Rouse logged more than 2,500 snaps during his career, according to Pro Football Focus. Now, he’s off to the NFL after his college career came to an end in the Alamo Bowl last week.
“Five years ago, I embarked on my college football career, uncertain of the challenges and triumphs that awaited me,” Walter Rouse wrote in his announcement. “Today, as I look back on my 52 starts and a total of 53 games, my collegiate football career has reached its conclusion.
“A journey that began at Stanford University and concluded at Oklahoma University. … It is with great excitement that I am thrilled to announce my decision to declare for the 2024 NFL Draft. I am eager to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”
More on the 2024 NFL Draft
The 2024 NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Michigan, with the first round on Thursday, April 25, the second and third rounds on Friday, April 26, and the fourth through seventh rounds on Saturday, April 27.
Players will have the opportunity to solidify their draft stock at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, to be held in Indianapolis, Indiana from February 26 through March 4.
The three-day event will be broadcasted throughout the weekend on ESPN and NFL Network.
To be eligible for the NFL Draft, players must be at least three years removed from their final year of high school while having used up their collegiate eligibility. Underclassmen are able to request league approval to become eligible for the draft, as are players who have graduated prior to using up all of their collegiate eligibility.
Last season, 69 players were granted special eligibility for the 2023 NFL Draft. 13 underclassmen who had completed their college degrees were also deemed eligible to be selected.
The deadline to declare for the 2024 NFL Draft is on January 15. NFL teams will receive a full list of eligible players in the class on January 19.