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On Monday morning, Jordan Howard and Indiana University confirmed previous speculation and reports and officially declared for the NFL Draft, foregoing his final year of eligibility.
Best of luck to @jhoward_8 in the @NFL! #iufb https://t.co/HMG5Xn2evT pic.twitter.com/83XglvmDs0
— Indiana Football (@HoosierFootball) December 28, 2015
Howard also released a statement regarding his decision to declare for the draft.
"After much thought and prayer, I have decided to forego my final year of eligibility to pursue my lifelong dream of playing in the NFL.
My success to date would not have been possible without God and the support of family and countless people. I'd like to thank my parents, Dr. Reginald Howard (deceased) and Flora Williams for their unyielding and unwavering support over the years.
My sincerest thanks to all of my coaches and teammates at Indiana University and the University of Alabama-Birmingham. I would like to personally thank former UAB coach Garrick McGee for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to play at the collegiate level. Coach Kevin Wilson, thank you for allowing me to be a part of a great football family. Coach Deland McCullough, thank you for coaching and pushing me to realize my true potential. Coach Mark Hill, thank you for inspiring me to work harder at strength and conditioning.
To my IU family, I could have never imagined receiving the love and support that you all have shown me since my arrival on campus. A special thanks to the training staff, Christa Sist and IU academics.
Today, because of the prayers, love and support of so many people, I'm one step closer to making my NFL dream a reality! God bless and Go Hoosiers!"
Howard helped lead the Hoosiers to a bowl game with 196 carries for 1,213 yards and 10 total TDs, all despite being hampered by injuries that would keep him out of numerous games, including the Pinstripe Bowl against Duke.