Jan. 12, 2011

Brian Kelly on Michael Floyd:
“I know Michael put a great deal of thought in determining whether he should enter the NFL this year and I truly appreciate and respect him for realizing the gravity of his decision. Whether Michael went to the NFL this year or next year would not have changed my opinion that he will have a long and successful career at the next level. I would have supported Michael’s decision either way, but obviously I am thrilled he will be part of our team in 2011.

“As I have said many times, I have never had a player work as hard as Michael. That work ethic and passion for football proved to be contagious in our locker room and it was not a coincidence that he represented the offense as a gameday captain more than any other player this year. I’m happy Michael feels it is in his best interests to return to Notre Dame to continue his education and I look forward to the expanded leadership role he’ll have with the team this year.”

Michael Floyd Opening Statement:
“This was one of the toughest decisions I have ever had to make in my life. On the one hand, there was Notre Dame. This place has been an incredible home to me and the relationships I built here are ones I know I’ll have for the rest of my life. On the other hand, there was the NFL. It has always been a lifelong goal to play football at the highest level and that is something I look forward to doing at some point. However, I’m pleased to say I will be returning to the University of Notre Dame for my senior season in 2011.

“I’m returning to Notre Dame for three reasons: to earn my degree, return Notre Dame to the top and improve myself as a player. First, I promised my mom I would graduate from Notre Dame and I am 40 credit hours shy of attaining that goal. I chose to attend Notre Dame in part because I knew it was a 40-year decision and not a four-year decision. Graduating from Notre Dame will help me for the rest of my life. Second, I want to get Notre Dame back to a BCS game. I believe we are very close to returning the Irish to where we belong and I want to be part of something great. Lastly, I want to show everyone in the country that I’m the best wide receiver in college football in 2011. There are many things I need to improve, but I feel with the coaching I have at Notre Dame, I can become the best at my position in this game.”

Was this a tough decision and, if so, why?
Yes, this was a tough decision because my dream has always been to play in the NFL but I didn’t think that this was the best time to make that jump. Ultimately, I wanted to be at Notre Dame for my senior season because you never get college back.

How did you make this decision and whom did you consult with?
I talked to my family and got opinions from a variety of coaches ranging from guys that coached me in my early childhood to college coaches.

Did the NFL evaluation you received have any impact on your decision?
The evaluation didn’t make that big of an impact on my decision. That was one factor but it didn’t outweigh my desire to graduate from Notre Dame and help us get back to the BCS.

How did your conversation with Coach Kelly go yesterday?
We had a great meeting yesterday. I felt he was very truthful and candid in our conversation and I really appreciated that.

How much did the team’s play over the last four games factor into your decision?
It was really important because it showed to others and me that we’re moving in the right direction. We got on a roll at the end of the year and that will hopefully carry over into next season.

Did the increase of your comfort level with the offense over the second half of the season as well as your relationship with Coach Kelly weigh in your choice?
A little bit. I think I showed Coach Kelly that I’m a playmaker and he likes to feed the ball to the playmakers. Coach and I are definitely on the same page and I’m looking forward to an exciting season next year.

— ND —