Virgina Tech CB Caleb Farley to opt out, prepare for NFL draft

Virginia Tech cornerback Caleb Farley, a projected 2021 first-round pick, is opting out of the coming season.

"I am opting out due to uncertain health conditions and regulations and all the other opt outs in football right now," he said in a video proved to his Instagram account.

He said he will put his focus on preparing for the NFL draft.

Farley's mother died in 2018 from breast cancer.

"I cannot afford to lose another parent or loved one," he said. "Though the competitor in me badly wants to play this season, I cannot ignore what's going on in my heart and I must make the decision that brings me the most peace."

Farley, a junior, had four interceptions last season and has six total in his college career. He was a first-team All-ACC selection and led the ACC with 16 passes defended last season.

ESPN's Adam Schefter and Andrea Adelson contributed to this report.