Former Oregon Wide Receiver BJ Kelley Has Tryout with AFL's LA KISS

Jan 12, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Oregon Ducks wide receiver B.J. Kelley (23) prior to the 2015 CFP National Championship Game at AT&T Stadium. Ohio State Buckeyes defeated Oregon Ducks 42-20. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Every year, college football programs across the country deal with the issue of student-athlete attrition. The University of Oregon Football program is not immune to the problem of early departures. The reasons for leaving early often include personal and family decisions, medical retirement, academic issues and disciplinary action. The voids are filled with new recruits, but departing players often fall into the background, moving on with their lives through academic transfers or moves into adult working life that require hanging up the cleats.

B.J. Kelley arrived on the UO campus in 2011. A highly touted 3-star recruit from Fresno, California, Kelley was part of a trio of high profile prep receivers (Tacoi Sumler and Devon Blackmon) recruited that year. None remain at UO today. Kelley was known for his speed and runs a 4.27 second 40 yard dash.

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Kelley chose to transfer following the National Championship Game in January 2015, the lack of playing time appearing to be an issue. An outspoken young man with a vibrant character, Kelley has the makings of a true entertainer. While his academic plans have changed, it appears his football career plans have not. According to multiple sources, he just completed a three-day tryout with the Arena Football League’s Los Angeles KISS.

After leaving the program, Kelley examined his options. He’s committed to academic success and obtaining his degree, so he wanted to transfer. As dynamic and talented as Kelley is, however, he believed he could not only continue his education, but also advance his football career. Taking the professional path immediately due to his lack of game time at Oregon was definitely a risk. Kelley was aware of how former teammates Dior Mathis (NFL: Steelers/Bears) and Rahsaan Vaughn (NFL: (Jets, Raiders, TBA) were advancing their careers despite their limited college playing time, so he connected with their agent, Brad Berkowitz, who also represents former Ducks Kenny Rowe, Cam Colvin, Brian Jackson, Bryson Littlejohn, Dewitt Stuckey, Terrell Turner, and Ryan Clanton.

Berkowitz has stepped up to assist many Ducks who have otherwise been left to fly solo and figure out how to do life alone. It’s not just about signing with a team and playing football, a great agent is a trustworthy coach and guide in all aspects of life. When playing the game is no longer a viable option, a great agent makes sure his clients are gainfully employed elsewhere in the world, living productive and healthy lives. In Berkowitz’s integrity, Kelley found a strong alternative: He would try out with an AFL team so he could give himself a season of valuable game film and, after confirming his eligibility with the National Football League, he will likely proceed by entering the 2016 NFL Draft (assuming he isn’t picked up sooner as a free agent).

On the shorter and narrower AFL field, Kelley will have to prove that he possesses more than just speed. He will have to be a versatile route runner and ball carrier after the catch. He will also have to be a great downfield blocker. Believing in himself against whatever odds society currently gives him, Kelley says he’s ready for the challenge and is excited about the opportunity.

Former Oregon Wide Receiver BJ Kelley Has Tryout with AFL’s LA KISS

By Nima Movassaghi | May 13, 2015

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