Feb. 25, 2004

Quotes From Mike Williams' Conference Call
Matt Leinart Quotes

All-American wide receiver Mike Williams has decided to leave USC following his sophomore year and apply for entry into next month's NFL draft, Trojan head coach Pete Carroll announced today.

"Mike has made the decision that he wants to go to the NFL," said Carroll, who is out of town. "We're disappointed to see him go, but we wish him the best of luck and will be rooting for him. Mike had a terrific two years with us and we're anxious to watch him in the NFL.

"We gave Mike all the information we could to help him make this decision. We believe he might be missing out on a tremendous financial opportunity by not staying another year, but he wants to go play in the NFL now. He knows all the ends of this decision.

"Our team is well-prepared for his leaving. After all, last year we lost a Heisman Trophy winner, the best defensive player in college football, a group of real good running backs and both cornerbacks, and we still won the national championship. So we understand how to handle personnel losses and move on. This presents a great opportunity for some of our other players to step to the front now. They'll take this challenge on with great excitement. It'll be fun to see who steps up."

Said Williams, who is in Florida: "I believe this is the right time for me to go to the NFL. Nothing is guaranteed in life and opportunities like this don't always come. I see this as my opportunity and I want to make the most of it.

"It was a tough decision because I have so much love and respect for USC and my teammates and coaches. I thank them for two of the best years of my life and wish them all the best as they go after another national championship in 2004.

"But it was time to make a decision that was in my best interest. I realize there are a lot of pluses and minuses to this decision. I realize it's a decision that you can argue either way. I received a lot of valuable input from so many people. But it ultimately came down to me making my own decision and doing what's best for me.

"This was not a decision based on money. Playing in the NFL has always been a dream of mine. The opportunity is there now to pursue that dream. So now I have begun training diligently here in Florida to take that next step."

In his 2-year career, Williams had 176 receptions for 2,579 yards and a USC record 30 touchdowns. He had 12 100-yard receiving games in his career. He averaged a touchdown every 6.1 times he touched the ball. As a sophomore last season, he had 95 catches for 1,314 yards (his second consecutive 1,000-yard season) and a USC record 16 TDs.