For the second time in 10 years the Carolina Panthers have the worst record in the NFL, but will miss out on getting the best player as Stanford announced QB Andrew Luck would be returning to Stanford for the 2011 season. He said:
"I am committed to earning my degree in architectural design from Stanford University"
While not a surprise in and of itself this is a serious blow both to the Panthers organization, and the morale of a disenfranchised fan-base whose patience was stretched thin during the 2010 season.
Clearly, only a sociopath would wish Luck misfortune, but it's clear from the talent he's displayed as a player someone will be getting a very, very good quarterback. It's just extremely disappointing it wont be Carolina.
For those looking for a reason: There really isn't a good one, at least a good one that makes sense to anyone not named Andrew Luck. The NFL isn't the be all and end all for him as it is some college hopefuls. He cherishes college life, loves Stanford and wants a degree. If there's one thing we can hang our hats on it's that we wont be getting a player whose heart isn't 100% in being an NFL player at this juncture.
What was already a crazy start to the off season is likely going to get crazier, but for now there appears no light at the end of the tunnel, at least where the draft is concerned.