Louisiana State University cornerback Patrick Peterson has formally declared for the 2011 NFL Draft. Peterson is highly-dynamic and sure-fire early first round selection who dominates in coverage and strikes like lightning in the return game. It has essentially been a foregone conclusion that Peterson would declare for the draft, but this makes it official. Peterson spelled out his ambitions heading into the combine and draft by saying, "My goal is to be the highest defensive player and the highest cornerback taken," Peterson said. "I have to go to this combine and perform well and hopefully I can be a No. 1 pick." LSU head coach Les Miles added, "This is a decision that Patrick Peterson and his family made independent of me, but I want to say simply that I agree with it completely."

Fantasy Analysis:

Peterson embodies all those draft buzzword cliches. "Stud", "beast", "tons of upside", "unlimited potential". Here at FFToolbox three out of our four mock writers, myself included, have Peterson going No. 2 in the draft. Peterson did struggle at times in the Cotton Bowl but frankly, his draft stock is nearly set in stone at this point barring injury. We also have him ranked No. 3 on our Top 100 prospects list or "Big Board". Almost every team in the Top 10 of the draft has serious issues defending the pass, whether it be because of poor cornerback play or or an inability to adequately rush the passer. It's hard to envision Peterson slipping very far in the draft so his decision makes sense.