For Purdue, next season's a Brees

Brees made his announcement on campus after a private meeting Sunday with coach Joe Tiller and his mother and father.

"It's better for most people including myself to stay another year," Brees said. "An extra year will provide me with a bit more maturity. I know that I can become a better player by staying another year."

Brees, a native of Austin, Texas, told reporters he wanted to announce the decision as soon as possible to dispel rumors circulating about his future, and he wanted to end debate about whether he would enter the NFL draft early.

"We just kind of agreed that this was the best way to go. It really wasn't as hard as I thought it would be. I'm coming back next year to have fun," he said.

Drew Brees will be a favorite for the Heisman Trophy next

The Boilermakers (6-4) are coming off a loss this weekend to Wisconsin, which the media billed as a contest between two contenders for the Heisman Trophy - Brees and Badgers' running back Ron Dayne.

Brees said he feels he has goals still to achieve at Purdue. As a junior, he has thrown for 3,334 yards and 21 touchdowns through 10 games. The Boilermakers are off this weekend and close their season Nov. 20 on the road against instate rival Indiana.

"I think next year we have a chance to do a lot of great things with this football team. I still feel that there's a lot of things to do here," said Brees.

Brees said he does not think about winning the Heisman Trophy, and that the potential of becoming a favorite in the race for college football's top prize next season did not factor into his decision.

Tiller called Brees one of the most productive players he's ever coached.

"His return just makes our goals a little more achievable," he said.

"I'm relaxed, it's a good feeling," Brees said. "I know this is definitely what was meant to be."

season now that he has decided to return for his senior year at Purdue.

DANA LINNANE/Daily

11-09-99