DeLeon signs with MLS early

Also signing along with DeLeon are Tony Cascio (University of Connecticut), Luis Silva (University of California, Santa Barbara), and Casey Townsend (University of Maryland).

"I couldn't be happier about being selected as one of the players to sign early with the MLS," said De Leon. "It has been a lifelong dream of mine to play professional soccer and I am looking forward to the opportunity. I am excited and look forward to making an impact at the professional level."

DeLeon earns All-Great Lakes Region honors for the second straight year. He has started in every game since joining Louisville two years ago. This season he ranked second on the team in scoring with six goals and six assists for 18 points.

He was named a first team All-BIG EAST selection for the second straight year. He was also the only Cardinal selected to BIG EAST All-Tournament team. He led the team this season with 76 shots on the year. He finished the year with two game-winners, including the game-winner in overtime against Bradley in the NCAA Tournament.

DeLeon finished his two year career at Louisville with 14 goals and nine assists for 37 points.

"Nick has exhibited that he is one of the best players in college soccer," said head coach Ken Lolla. "We look forward to watching his success in the MLS."

DeLeon will be among about 65 top pro prospects that will showcase their talents at the adidas MLS Player Combine Jan. 6-10 at Central Broward Regional Park in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

Combine matches will be closed to the public but fans can watch the matches live on MLSsoccer.com.

The 2012 MLS SuperDraft presented by adidas will take place at the Kansas City Convention Center on Thursday, Jan. 12 at 12 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on ESPN2, TSN2, and RDS2.

The complete rosters and coaching staffs for the adidas MLS Player Combine will be announced at a later date.