In a day and age when it is common practice for top players to leave college early and declare for the NFL Draft, Mike Doss decided it is best for him to remain at Ohio State for the 2002 season.
The two-time All-American safety, projected as early as a second round or third round pick by most mock drafts, was moved to tears while announcing his decision to return to OSU for his senior season.
On his mother’s birthday, Doss’ decision seemed to hinge on her approval. Doss asked his mother what she would like him to do moments before the 2 p.m. press conference at the Woody Hayes Center.
“I love my mother to death,” Doss said prior to announcing his intentions. “My mother told me to get my education and I will be returning to Ohio State.”
This announcement was a welcomed surprise by defensive back coach Mel Tucker, who was in contact with Doss almost every day after the commencement of the Jan. 1 Outback Bowl in Tampa, Fla.
“I hoped he would come back, and I look forward to working with him in the future.” Tucker said.
According to Doss, coach Jim Tressel, who was unavailable for comment, did not stand in the way of his decision.
Ironically, Doss himself did not know his decision until he reached the podium, but spoke from his heart and decided what is best for him, despite early thoughts of foregoing his senior season.
“Each individual is different,” Doss replied when asked about the recent departures of teammates Derek Ross and Darnell Sanders. “But football is just a game and I get to play with my friends one more time before beginning my career in the NFL. I thank the Lord for being able to make a choice.”
The hard-hitting Doss, who led the Buckeyes in tackles the past two years, sees his senior year as an opportunity to perfect his game. He has set a team goal of winning a Big Ten Championship rather than focusing on individual honors.
“I want to improve my tackling, man coverage and work hard next year,” Doss said, naming parts of his game that may need improvement.
What does not need improvement is the safety’s attitude towards the game and his education.
“OSU gave me the opportunity to go to college, and I want to stick it through,” Doss said. “Twenty years from now I won’t be playing football.”
The future seems bright for the Thorpe Award semifinalist (given to college football’s best defensive back). In the history of OSU football, only six players have been named first team All-American three times. With his work ethic and physical attributes, Doss seems determined to become the seventh.
“The NFL will always be there,” Doss said. “But education is the key to success.”
