Hawaii cornerback/returner Mike Edwards told the Star-Advertiser he will forgo his senior season and apply for the 2013 NFL Draft.

Edwards will make it official during a news conference Wednesday in Cleveland.

“It was a difficult decision,” said Edwards, who will file his application with the NFL on Wednesday. “I felt it was the best thing for my family. I have two sons and I want to provide for them.”

Edwards said he received a favorable draft projection from a panel of NFL officials. He declined to specify the assessment, but he reportedly was told he projected as a mid-round selection, with the possibility of going as high as the third round.

UH coach Norm Chow said Edwards has the skills for a successful pro career.

“I’ll miss him not only as a player but as a young man,” Chow said. “We had a great relationship. We wish him all the best.”

This season, Edwards is 12th nationally with 1.43 pass breakups per game and sixth nationally in kickoff returns with a 30.38-yard average.