Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports

The Utah Utes Star Safety Declares for the 2024 NFL Draft.

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Jackson Loschko | Last updated 12/8/23

The Utah Utes finished the regular season with an 8-4 record. They were 5-4 in conference games and finished 5th in the Pac-12. The defense had an impressive season, giving up 19.8 points per game, 23rd out of 133 schools.

One of their top defensive players declared for the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Utah Utes star safety announced that he declared for the 2024 NFL Draft.

Star safety Cole Bishop announced on X that he declared for the draft:

“Over the last three years, I’ve lived a dream I never thought was in the cards. I was able to play college football in Utah.

Growing up in Georgia, playing college football in Utah wasn’t what I expected to do. Looking back, I couldn’t be happier that I chose to come here. The University of Utah took me in with open arms and treated me like family from the first time I stepped foot on campus. The memories I built at Utah are everlasting.

Coach Scalley, from the first day, you’ve taken me under your wing and have been instrumental in my development and success as a football player and as a man.

To my teammates, going to battle with you is something I’ll always remember. The bonds we created on and off-the-field are something I’ll always value as we embark on our journey of life.

To the muss, y’all are the greatest. Playing in front of you at each home game was game changing. You brought so much energy each week and there’s nothing like it.

As I begin my journey to fulfill my dream of playing in the NFL, I want to thank my family, teammates, coaches, and fans for their support during my time at Utah.

As always…Go Utes.”

Bishop had a great career with Utah.

Bishop committed to Utah for the 2021 season. Bishop played ten games and started six during his freshman season. He had 54 tackles, nine for a loss, three sacks, five pass deflections, and one fumble recovery.

Bishop led the team in tackles in his sophomore season. He had 83 tackles, six for a loss, 1.5 sacks, one interception, three pass deflections, and one fumble recovery.

Bishop led the team in interceptions in his junior season. He had 60 tackles, 6.5 for a loss, three sacks, two interceptions, four pass deflections, two fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble.

Where does Mel Kiper Jr. have Cole Bishop ranked?

Mel Kiper Jr. has Cole Bishop ranked the 7th best safety in the 2024 NFL Draft. Bishop is ranked behind Kamren Kitchens (Miami ), Tyler Nubin (Minnesota), Javon Bullard (Georgia), Jaylin Simpson (Auburn), James Williams (Miami), and Tykee Smith (Georgia).