Penn State junior running back Saquon Barkley has announced his intentions via Instagram post to forego his final season of eligibility with the Nittany Lions in favor of his opportunity to play in the NFL.
Saturday, Saquon Barkley bucked the trend in college football and put on yet another stunning performance, rushing for 137 yards and two touchdowns on 18 carries to go along with his seven receptions for another 38 yards.
Sunday, he said goodbye.
Released via a post on his personal Instagram page as well as on Penn State's site, the Nittany Lions' second all-time career rushing leader announced his intention to forgo his final season of eligibility in favor of a career in the NFL.
Thanking fans and the entire Penn State community for its support in his three years with the program, Barkley acknowledged God's blessings in allowing him the opportunity to "pursue the dream I have had since I was a little kid of playing in the NFL."
The full statement reads as follows:
"Dear Penn State Nation,
"I would like to start off by saying thank you so much for all of the memories that you have helped create over the last three years, whether it be on the football field, in school or in the community," Barkley said. "I am forever grateful to you for making my time here so enjoyable. You have been amazing to me through the ups and downs of my career and you will always have a special place in my heart.
"With that being said, God has blessed me with the opportunity to pursue the dream I have had since I was a little kid of playing in the NFL. I would like to thank God, my family, especially my mom, dad, brothers and sisters, my coaches and teammates, the athletic training and performance enhancements staffs at Penn State, my support system from Whitehall and the Penn State fans who have helped me be in position to have a decision like this. After lots of thought, prayer and conversation with those closest to me, I have decided to forgo my senior season and enter the NFL Draft.
"I hope I have left a lasting impression on this University, football program and community at large. It has been an honor and privilege to be able to call Penn State home and represent the Blue & White and all of the great players who came before me and will follow after me. I will continue to work each and every day to continue to represent Penn State the right way as I move on to the next phase of my life.
"I am aware I am coming up short on getting my degree, but I have made a promise to my mom, dad and Coach Franklin that I will continue to pursue my dream of obtaining a Penn State degree."
