2013 NFL Draft: Oklahoma safety Tony Jefferson to make jump to pros

Oklahoma Sooners safety Tony Jefferson (1) looks into the backfield during the game against the Texas Longhorns during the red river rivalry at the Cotton Bowl. Oklahoma beat Texas 63-21. (Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports)

Tony Jefferson, 5-11, 210 pounds, is rated as the fifth best safety and 82nd player overall by ESPNs Scouts Inc.

— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) January 6, 2013

Oklahoma loses not one, but two starters from their top 10 2012 team with the announcement by safety Tony Jefferson that he will forgo his senior year in order to turn pro.

The 5-foot-11, 212-pound native of Chula Vista, California was an absolute beast for the Sooners all season long, leading the team in tackles with a whopping 119 on the season. While the number is far and away a career high, he never had less than 65 in a season, even as a freshman.

Jefferson also hauled in two interceptions, recorded 3.5 tackles for a loss and broke up three passes in his junior year.

He is the fifth-highest rated safety entering the draft, but wherever he lands, he will provide an immediate boost as a sure tackler with tenacity and speed.

Latest from the NFL Draft >> Star Sooners wideout Kenny Stills will also go pro

What do you think Gamedayrs?