2015 NFL Draft: Connor Cook Mulling Return To MSU

Sep 27, 2014; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans quarterback Connor Cook (18) changes the play at the line of scrimmage against the Wyoming Cowboys during the 2nd half of a game at Spartan Stadium. MSU won 56-14. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

Nothing will impact the strength of the 2015 NFL draft more than students returning to school, and it seems a big one plans to do just that.  Michigan State quarterback Connor Cook is in the midst of his best season as a college quarterback.  He has the Spartans 7-1 and looking like national title contenders.  His numbers aren’t otherworldly but his 17 touchdown passes to just five interceptions demonstrates how much he has matured as a passer since last season.  Many draft experts believe he has the talent and the leadership qualities of a 1st round quarterback.

Like any reasonable athlete, Cook knows that if he’s guaranteed to go that high, it’s his responsbility to his personal future to declare early.  However, he made it clear in a recent interview that unless that becomes a certainty, his primary plan was always to finish his entire collect career at MSU.

"“Who wants to leave college? College is fun.  You have great relationships with people here, especially the coaches, your teammates. I’ve obviously thought about it with my parents, but we’re just taking it one week at a time as the season goes. But the main goal is to use up all of my eligibility at Michigan State.”“Obviously, if you’re one of the top quarterbacks that are going to be picked, and you know you’re guaranteed a first-round pick, I think that’s one of the reasons why you would leave.”"

Money is one obstacle, yes, but what would winning a national championship do?  After all, the Spartans have a terrific chance to do just that if they can win the remainder of their games and reach the playoffs.  If Connor Cook accomplished that, there wouldn’t be much left to do at Michigan State.

Still, the bigger question is what would his exit do to the complexion of the 2015 NFL draft?  As it stands he is one of three quarterbacks considered 1st round quality together with Marcus Mariota of Oregon and Jameis Winston of Florida State.  Him returning to school could increase the frenzy of top draft teams to land one of the other two.