Oregon RB Thomas declares for draft

Jan 6, 2014 - 5:27 AM Eugene, OR (SportsNetwork.com) - Oregon running back De'Anthony Thomas will forgo his senior season and enter the 2014 NFL Draft.

"I am officially withdrawing from the University of Oregon to pursue a professional career in the NFL," Thomas said in a prepared statement Sunday. "I want to express my deepest appreciation and thanks to the University and all of my teammates, coaches and fans. I look forward to staying connected to the University and visiting the sidelines as often as possible."

Thomas, perhaps the most electrifying player in college football, finished third all-time in school history with 5,345 all-purpose yards.

In 2013, the 5-foot-9 speedster rushed for 594 yards and eight touchdowns and also returned 21 kicks for 513 yards and a score despite missing four games.