Cassanova McKinzy returning for his senior season

AUBURN -- After considering an early departure for the NFL, linebacker Cassanova McKinzy has decided to return for his senior season on the Plains.

McKinzy, the second-leading tackler for Auburn this season with 91 stops including a team-high 11 for loss, stated his intent to return for the 2015 season In a series of tweets Tuesday afternoon.

"The auburn family means to [sic] much to me to not take advantage of the time I have here," McKinzy tweeted. "I'm looking forward to helping us build the best defense in college football. Can't forget my brothers an [sic] that grind we embrace. I love you all. Couldn't ask for a better back bone."

A two-year starter, McKinzy moved to inside to middle linebacker this season and started in 12 of 13 games, appearing in all. He led the Tigers with 75 tackles in 2013.

McKinzy and fellow linebacker Kris Frost submitted their paperwork for evaluation by the NFL Draft Advisory Board prior to the Outback Bowl. Frost, who returned to Charlotte, North Carolina to discuss his future with his family, has not stated his intentions for next year.

McKinzy was late in his travel to the Outback Bowl and was not been available for interviews after the game. The 6-foot-3 249 pound Birmingham native is rated the No. 6 rated inside linebacker in the 2016 draft class by NFLDraftScout.com.

Auburn's revamped defense under Will Muschamp will have one of its most experienced players back in McKinzy, who has played in 34 games with 180 tackles including 18.5 for loss, the most of any returning player.

Should Frost return as anticipated, Auburn will have one of the most experienced linebacker duos in the SEC heading into next season.