AUBURN, Ala. (AP) Derrick Brown had a newborn son and the choice of either pursuing his NFL career or continuing to chase college quarterbacks and his degree.

The Auburn defensive tackle opted to return for his senior season despite being projected as a potential first-round draft pick. The decision not only gives him a chance to graduate this year but bolsters a defensive line that figures to remain the Tigers' most talent-rich position, with defensive ends Marlon Davidson and Nick Coe also opting to come back instead of turning pro.

"I mean, when you look at the benefit on this side of things ... it's just like, if I don't go this year, I could get hurt. I hope not to," Brown said. "But my degree in my hands is going to be so much more powerful than what could have happened.