Harrison Phillips, the Millard West graduate who went on to become an All-American at Stanford, has declared for the NFL draft.
Phillips had one year left of eligibility, but he will instead enter the draft after a decorated Cardinal career. Phillips is projected to be at least a second-round pick, and CBS Sports ranks him No. 37 overall and the No. 4 defensive tackle among draft prospects.
Phillips announced his decision Thursday afternoon on Twitter.
“The days were long, but the years went fast,” Phillips wrote in his announcement. “I wish each one of you could feel this passion and excitement I have beaming off of me right now. I get to go live out the only lifelong dream I’ve ever had.”
The 6-foot-4, 295-pound Phillips was All-Pac-12 after leading the Cardinal in tackles (103), tackles for losses (17) and sacks (7.5). He also had six quarterback hurries, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He was the only FBS defensive lineman this year to have at least 100 tackles, and he’s the first Stanford lineman to do it since 1979.
Phillips also was named second-team All-American by the Football Writers Association of America and third-team by the Associated Press. He was a second-team Academic All-American after graduating with majors in sociology and science, technology and society.
He was the 2014 Nebraska high school boys athlete of the year and a three-time state wrestling champion. He had nine sacks and 21 tackles for loss as a senior defensive lineman at Millard West.
Phillips made The World-Herald’s Super Six in 2013 and was the honorary co-captain of the All-Nebraska football team that year.
