VT out of high school, with a promise of making a scholarship if I became a starter. In high school, few would have outworked me and I probably could have made it, but ultimately, I decided I didn't love the sport enough and sports-related work would only detract from my long-term goals for college and beyond. I have never regretted that decision.

Your post may indeed be what Jerod is thinking. As long as he is making an informed decision, I'm okay with whatever he does. I hope he doesn't sell himself short though by coming out early and expect to make it in the NFL with his current level of development. I'm afraid he will be very disappointed if that's the case.