Nash declares for draft

Associated Press

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Missouri running back Damien Nash, who quit the team at the end of last season, will turn professional.

Nash completed the paperwork to enter the 2005 National Football League draft, the university announced Friday.

''I'm excited about the chance to play in the NFL,'' Nash said in a news release. ''I've always had that as a dream, and I'm looking forward to doing everything I can over the next few months to make it a reality.''

Nash, from St. Louis, rushed for 1,254 yards and 12 touchdowns in two seasons.

The relationship between Nash and Missouri coach Gary Pinkel apparently soured after Nash was critical of play-calling following Missouri's 20-17 loss to Oklahoma State on Oct. 23. He was suspended for one game, and after he returned, his playing time declined.

''Damien is a very talented football player and I think he's got the ability to play at the next level,'' Pinkel said. ''I always view this as a positive situation, especially when someone looks into it properly and does it the right way. We wish him the best and will do everything we can to continue to assist him however possible.''