Clemson's Davis to go pro; Kelly to stay

CLEMSON — James Davis did the expected on Wednesday evening and announced plans to turn pro early.

Davis, a junior tailback for Clemson, said he'll skip his final season with the Tigers and enter the NFL Draft. Davis, who earned first-team All-ACC honors as a sophomore and junior, said it was "a tough decision."

"This is just my dream," Davis said after exiting a meeting with head coach Tommy Bowden, who said he disagreed with Davis' decision.

Davis, an Atlanta native, said family played a role in his decision. He has a 1-year-old daughter.

Bowden said he recommended that Davis stay in 2008. Davis was forecast as a third-round draft pick by the NFL underclassmen advisory committee.

The deadline for underclassmen to declare for the draft is Tuesday. Davis said his decision is final.

Receiver Kelly changes mind; to stay at Clemson

CLEMSON Clemson receiver Aaron Kelly has announced he is staying for his senior year with the Tigers.

Kelly, a first-team All-ACC pick in 2007, said he was initially adamant about skipping his senior year and entering the NFL draft, but he said his mother convinced him to remain, finish out his career, and earn his degree.

Kelly said he was a fourth round projection by the NFL Underclassmen Advisory Committee.

Kelly also spoke Wednesday with head coach Tommy Bowden and receivers coach Dabo Swinney but he said his mother played the biggest role in his decision.

"I felt like I was going against her," Kelly said. "I've never done that in my life. Why should I start now?"