Lawson Declares for Draft

Auburn Defensive End Carl Lawson (55) after making a tackle against Vanderbilt on November 5 (Photo: Matt Gaught)

One of the best defensive linemen in recent Auburn memory has made a decision concerning the next step in his playing career. Defensive end Carl Lawson announced via social media that he will declare for the NFL Draft, forgoing his senior season.

The decision is not all that surprising, considering that Lawson was able to showcase just how talented he is in his first, fully-healthy season at Auburn. He also participated Senior Day festivities prior to the game with Alabama A&M on November 19.

Known for his speed off the edge, Lawson recorded 30 tackles in 2016, with 13 of those being for loss with nine quarterback sacks. Overall, Lawson played 34 games as a Tiger producing 67 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and 14 sacks during his career that began in 2013. According to Scout Inc., Lawson is ranked 20th on their “Top 32” list heading into the draft.