Miami (FL) Hurricanes

PHOTO: Family hardships forces Burns to declare for 2016 NFL Draft

Published Dec. 28, 2015 6:49 p.m. ET

foxsports

On Monday, Miami junior cornerback Artie Burns announced he will forgo his senior season -- opting instead to enter the 2016 NFL Draft.

Burns led the ACC this past year with six interceptions, and also accrued 36 tackles and five pass-breakups. An all-conference performer, Burns could initially be projected as a mid-round pick -- with the potential to push up into the second-to-third round range.

Speaking to local reporters, Burns offered a personal message as to why he elected to turn pro early. He has sole custody of his two younger brothers -- including his own son. Burns mother passed way earlier this year, and his father is currently in jail. As such, financial needs signaled the necessity to try and make it onto an NFL squad.

Here is the letter @_audi8 sent a couple #Canes reporters including me about declaring early for NFL Draft pic.twitter.com/EWwMAOmYFp
— Manny Navarro (@Manny_Navarro) December 28, 2015

#Miami JR CB Artie Burns announces that he has elected to enter the NFL Draft. Had 6 INTs this year & should test very well in Indy.
— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) December 28, 2015