Alex Collins declares for the 2016 NFL Draft

Published Jan. 11, 2016 10:24 a.m. ET

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In an expected move, Arkansas junior running back Alex Collins declared for the 2016 NFL Draft Sunday. Collins joins teammates Hunter Henry and Sebastian Tretola is declaring early for the draft this offseason.

This season, Collins became only the third player in SEC history -- the others were Herschel Walker and Darren McFadden -- to rush for 1,000 yards in three consecutive seasons. The junior Razorback finished the year with 1,577 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns on the ground. For his three-year career, Collins racked up 3,703 rushing yards, 36 touchdowns and averaged 5.6 yards-per-carry despite having 665 attempts. 

"For the past week, I have spent my days and nights with much prayer trying to decide my future at the University of Arkansas," Collins said in a statement. "Without a doubt this has been one of the most difficult weeks of my life as I try to make the right decision for my future. 

"I also see a future in the NFL as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. After much prayer and discussion with the people who love me, I have made the decision to enter the NFL Draft. Coach Bielema has been a guiding mentor in my life for several years and I want to personally thank him for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to play at Arkansas. I also want to thank the coaching staff, academic staff, and my teammates for helping make my time at the University of Arkansas successful.

"Lastly, there is no way to truly express how thankful I am for the love and support Arkansas fans have given me during the past three years. Without a doubt there are no better college fans than Hogs fans. I hope I make you proud at the next level."

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