Bailey Cites Son as Impetus to Opt for NFL

As the majority of West Virginia fans expected, Stedman Bailey has announced that he will forgo his senior season in Morgantown in favor of entering the 2013 NFL draft. Bailey announced the decision today to wvusports.com.

Oct 6, 2012; Austin, TX, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers wider receiver Stedman Bailey (3) celebrates scoring a touchdown with wide receiver Tavon Austin (1) during the first quarter against the Texas Longhorns at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

"“I kind of weighed out all of my options, sat down with my family, sat down with Coach (Dana) Holgorsen and we all came to the conclusion that this was the best decision for me,” said Bailey. “I thought it out for quite a bit.”"

For Stedman Bailey, it was a decision that required a lot of consideration. As much as he enjoyed his time at West Virginia, and as appealing as another year at WVU was, Bailey could not resist the opportunity to go to the NFL.

When you look at Bailey’s options, it really was a no-brainer for the talented wide receiver and the new father.

"“(His son) played into this decision,” Bailey said. “I have a family now and that pretty much comes first for me, so it all works out for me to go.”"

For Bailey, the decision to take care of his family’s financial well-being is a mature choice. By going to the NFL, Bailey will be able to provide his infant son with the kind of life every parent wants for their child.

While Mountaineer fans are surely disappointed to not have Bailey for one more season, they must be proud of Bailey prioritizing his family in his decision-making process.  Good luck to Bailey in what is sure to be a long and productive NFL career.