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SEC’s top players consider NFL jump UF's Grossman will return; his top two targets, to enter pro draft BY CHRIS FOY THE UAMECOCK The Southeastern Conference is poised for a big makeover next season, as many of its marquee players have declared themselves eligible for the NFL draft. Some familiar names, however, including conference player of the year Rex Grossman, will return next season. In Gainesville, Steve Spurrier’s departure has caused many Gators to consider leaving school early. Grossman, a rising junior quarterback, had been mulling over the decision since he learned that Ron Zook, defensive coordi nator for the New Orleans Saints, would be taking over as head coach. On Friday, he made clear his intentions to stay. “It’s the hardest decision I’ve had to make in my entire life,” Grossman said. “It was going to be a big decision either way. But I’m glad I’m coming back.” Grossman’s decision came only a day after his backup, Brock Berlin, announced he was trans ferring to Miami. Sophomore wide receiver Tay lor Jacobs stated along with Gross man that he would also be return ing to Florida next season. Jacobs will be the only one of the Gators star receiver trio, however, to be back next fall. Sophomore Jabar Gaffney and junior Reche Cald well both have declared for the draft. In addition, Florida will have to deal with the loss of cor nerback Lito Sheppard and offen sive tackle Mike Pearson. This season, Grossman threw for 3,896 yards and 34 touchdowns. He finished second in the Heisman Trophy race and was also named the AP Player of the Year. Jacobs caught 38 passes for 712 yards in 2001 and was named Or ange Bowl MVP. Florida’s new offensive coordi nator, Ed Zaunbrecher, was thrilled that two key players of the 'nation’s top-ranked offense will be hack next season. “I just became a whole lot bet ter coach this afternoon,” Zaun brecher said about the players’ de cisions to stay. In Knoxville, it appeared Ten nessee, like Florida, would be los ing two critical wide receivers. But both Kelley Washington and Donte’ Stallworth changed their minds and decided to stay put. Un fortunately for the Vols, however, one of their biggest defensive play makers, Albert Haynesworth, is leaving early. Georgia will lose three players early to the draft. Safety Terreal Bierria, defensive end Charles Grant and tight end Randy “It’s the hardest decision I’ve had to make in my entire life. It was going to be a big decision either way. But I’m glad I’m coming back.” REX GROSSMAN FLORIDA QUARTERBACK McMichael have decided to forego their senior seasons and declare themselves eligible for the draft. Elsewhere around the SEC, Kentucky will lose tight end Derek Smith and defensive end Dennis Johnson. Alabama will miss All SEC linebacker Saleem Rasheed. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Comments on this story?E-mail gamecocksports@hotmail.com. 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