USC junior defensive end Nick Perry intends to apply for entry to the 2012 NFL Draft, the school announced Saturday. Perry is a two-year starter for the Trojans and had 9.5 sacks last year. Coach Lane Kiffin said he supported Perry's decision. "His career progression at USC continued climbing to a point where he was ready to make the jump to the NFL," Kiffin said in a statement. "He was an awesome pass rushing for us and he created havoc throughout the Pac-12 this year in a league that featured many of the nation's most dangerous passing offenses. He will be a valued addition to any NFL team and should be an attractive choice in the upcoming draft."