On January 7, 2011, ASU senior cornerback Omar Bolden decided he would forgo the NFL draft and would return to the Sun Devils for his senior season.

However, on April 2 he injured his knee and just three months after ACL surgery it appears his chances of playing his senior season are slim, according to the Arizona Republic.

“I wouldn’t say I’m not going to play, but chances are slim,” Bolden told the Republic’s Doug Haller. “To be honest, I don’t want to rush. I’m trying to look at the big picture. If I’m ready in six months, then I’m ready. If I’m not, then I’m not.”

Although his chances of returning are slim, the Sun Devils and their fans would love to see Bolden on the field, but the leader of the secondary is reluctant to give a timetable to avoid disappointment.

“I don’t want to give out a time or date because I don’t want to disappoint the fans, and I don’t want to disappoint myself. What I can tell you is I worked hard yesterday and I’m working hard today, just to get better tomorrow. That’s my approach.”

While an injury right before a highly anticipated senior season is certainly frustrating, Bolden helping the team in whatever way he can while thinking positively and maintaining hope.

“Don’t get me wrong: This is still hard,” Bolden said. “But I have a lot of positive energy. It takes a lot to get me down. At the end of the day, I’m living. I’m breathing. I didn’t have to get wheeled off the field. I walked off on my own. Things could always be worse. I’m just thankful I’m still able to be around the team. I can offer advice, and I can bring energy.”

Follow @AZSports