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Maryland defensive end Yannick Ngakoue declares for NFL Draft

(Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images)
(Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images)

After putting up 13.5 sacks this year as a junior, Maryland defensive end Yannick Ngakoue announced Monday that he will forgo his senior season and declare for the 2016 NFL Draft.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone that is in anyway affiliated with the University of Maryland and its football program,” Ngakoue said. “For the last three years I have called College Park my home, and I can honestly say that everyone here will remain an integral part of my family. I am a better person for having chosen Maryland as my home, and I know that has allowed me to be prepared for what lies ahead.”

Ngakoue further expounded on his decision on Twitter.

Ngakoue’s 13.5 sacks were a Maryland single-season record and was second in the country behind Penn State’s Carl Nassib (15.5). Ngakoue also totaled 38 tackles, 15 tackles for loss and one forced fumble for the Terps this season.

“We are thrilled for Yannick and his family that he has made this decision to pursue his lifelong dream of playing in the NFL,” said interim head coach Mike Locksley. “After speaking with Yannick and his family, he feels that he is prepared to take this step in his football career and we support his decision. We wish him well and look forward to seeing him compete at the highest level.”

Ngakoue finishes his career fourth best in Maryland history with 21.5 sacks and eighth best with 33 tackles for loss.

Maryland went 3-9 this season.

For more Maryland news, visit TerrapinSportsReport.com.

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Sam Cooper is a contributor for the Yahoo Sports blogs. Have a tip? Email him or follow him on Twitter!