Ashland University has been a Division II school that has produced nine total NFL talents since becoming a program. The most recent taken in the NFL Draft was tight end Adam Shaheen, who was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2017 draft to the Chicago Bears.

Now, current Eagle linebacker Michael Ayers has the opportunity to add his name into the record books as the 10th Eagle to make their mark and play in an NFL regular season contest. On Dec. 13, 2022, he officially declared on social media that he would be entering the 2023 NFL Draft process.

“Thank you Ashland for the great memories, and being a place I can forever call home. With that being said, I will be declaring for the 2023 NFL Draft,” he posted on social media (the full post can be found down below).

Ayers was a standout at the Division II level in the 2022-2023 season recording 81 tackles, 10.5 tackles for a loss, three sacks, an interception, eight pass breakups, 11 quarterback hurries, three forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.

Just a year ago in the 2021-2022 season, he had similar success.

He recorded 100 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, three sacks, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.

With a multitude of statistics to show that he can be a versatile player, he looks to translate that into a viable career at the professional level. The most likely position in the NFL would see him at inside linebacker, outside linebacker or safety.

“It feels good [I] worked hard to get to this point. I can’t thank my team and coaches enough for helping me get here,” said Ayers.

The 2023 NFL Drafting process begins immediately for Ayers as he has the potential to compete in postseason college all-star games, private workout sessions, the NFL Combine and many more opportunities.