Boyd to stay for 2013

CLEMSON -- As expected, Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd announced his intentions to stay at Clemson for his senior season at a Wednesday news conference.

Boyd, one of seven Clemson players to earn ACC Player of the Year honors, put the finishing touches on another outstanding season last week, leading his team to an 11th win and a Chick-fil-A Bowl victory over No. 7 LSU.

The 2012 All-American led the conference in passing efficiency, total offense, touchdowns rushing and passing, and yards per pass attempts. It was only Boyd's second year as a starter in Chad Morris' system.

Boyd did not receive a first-day grade by the NCAA underclassman advisory committee, but had told reporters last fall that he would reassess his options at the end of the season.

Boyd said Wednesday he was "leaning towards going pro" until about five days ago. The QB said the grade he received from the committee was "2nd to fourth round."

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney has steadfastly said in recent months it has been his belief that players who do not receive first-round grades should return to school.

Boyd, the first quarterback in the conference to earn first-team All-America honors since Boston College's Matt Ryan did it six years ago, will head a 2013 Clemson team that could be a preseason top 10 pick. Offensively the Tigers will return star receiver Sammy Watkins, wideouts Charone Peake, Martavis Bryant, Adam Humphries and budding red-shirt freshman Germone Hopper, along with four starting offensive linemen; Tyler Shatley, Giff Timothy, Brandon Thomas and David Beasley.

Rising senior wideout Nuk Hopkins also has been weighing a decision on whether to return to Clemson or bolt for the NFL. Hopkins was not at Tuesday's team meeting.

Tigerillustrated.com will have more from Boyd's presser later today.