The league will announce the complete list today.
Couch, who passed for 4,275 yards and 36 TD's in the 1998 season, was expected to be selected No. 1 by the expansion Cleveland Browns.
"I want them to know that's where I want to be," Couch said about playing in Cleveland.
Claiborne won the Butkus Award as the nation's top linebacker while Farris was voted the Outland Trophy as the top lineman.
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| AP PHOTO Tim Couch is headed to the NFL, where he is expected to be taken by the expansion Cleveland franchise. Other underclassmen, such as Ohio State's Andy Katzenmoyer and David Boston, have also declared. |
Two players from Ohio State, wide receiver David Boston and linebacker Andy Katzenmoyer, announced they will leave early. Both were expected to be taken in the first round.
Boston was the Buckeyes career receiving leader with 2,855 yards while Katzenmoyer became the first sophomore to win the Butkus Award.
A pair of Florida Gators, linebacker Jevon Kearse and defensive tackle Reggie McGrew, also said they are coming out early.
Running backs Edgerrin James of Miami, Amos Zereoue of West Virginia and Leroy Collins of Louisville were among the others.
Collins' departure was a surprise - even to his coach.
"Let him leave," Louisville coach John L. Smith said after hearing of Collins' intent. "Where does he think he's going to go?"
Others who have declared include defensive back Champ Bailey of Georgia, offensive lineman John Tait of Brigham Young and linebacker Rahim Abdullah of Clemson.
Not all the stars thought the time was right to come out.
Florida State standout wide receiver Peter Warrick and Alabama running back Shaun Alexander were among those who opted to stay in school.
"The main thing I wanted to do is be happy wherever I am," said Alexander, who was Alabama's leading rusher. "If I go to the NFL, I've got to be a grownup."
01-11-99
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