While many programs got good news when it comes to players eager to return for 2018, the same cannot be said for Alabama, LSU and Tennessee. Taking that into consideration, it’s no surprise to see each program land on ESPN’s list of losers following the deadline for prospects to declare early for the 2018 NFL Draft.

The list was put together by Adam Rittenberg and did not contain a single SEC program among his list of winners. Clemson, scheduled to play at Texas A&M in Week 2, West Virginia, scheduled to opener the season in Charlotte against Tennessee, and Washington, scheduled to opener the season in Atlanta against Auburn, all made the list of winners.

Rittenberg’s comments on LSU:

The hits come on both sides of the ball, especially on defense, as cornerbacks Donte Jackson and Kevin Toliver II depart, along with edge rusher Arden Key. Running back Derrius Guice, who rushed for 2,638 yards the past two seasons, also exits. While these decisions aren’t surprising, the overall number hurts an LSU program trying to compete for titles again.

His thoughts on Alabama:

Wide receiver Calvin Ridley, headed to the draft, had 49 more receptions than any other Alabama player. Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick was the nation’s best all-around defender, and Da’Ron Payne will be missed along the defensive line…Alabama always prepares for an exodus of underclassmen to the NFL, but it has some big holes to fill.

As well as his thoughts on Tennessee:

It’s a clean slate in Knoxville for Jeremy Pruitt, but the new Vols coach would have liked to retain running back John Kelly for another season. Kelly instead is off to the NFL after a 189-carry season. He’s one of three Vols underclassmen — defensive back Rashaan Gaulden and defensive tackle Reginald McKenzie Jr. are the others — heading to the NFL despite a 4-8 on Rocky Top.