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One of the stars of Iowa’s stout defensive line is headed to the NFL.
Monday, defensive end Anthony Nelson declared for the 2019 NFL Draft, deciding to forgo his final season with the Hawkeyes. He made his announcement via Twitter.
“These past four years competing alongside my teammates for the State of Iowa in front of the best fans in the country will be something I will never forget,” Nelson wrote. “After a great deal of consideration and discussion with my family, I have decided to declare for the 2019 NFL Draft.”
I will always bleed black and gold! Thank you Hawkeye nation for all of your love and support! pic.twitter.com/evFHyl9R7e
— Anthony Nelson (@ANelly98) January 7, 2019
Nelson ranked second in the B1G in sacks this season, totaling 9.5. He was only behind teammate A.J. Epenesa, who recorded 10.5 sacks.
The defensive end also totaled 13.5 tackles for loss and 45 total stops.
In three seasons, Nelson appeared in 39 games for the Hawkeyes, registering 119 tackles, 31 tackles for loss and 23 sacks. He had been an anchor on one of the B1G’s top defensive lines over the last two seasons.
Nelson joins fellow defensive standout Amani Hooker — the B1G Defensive Back of the Year — also declared for the NFL Draft.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB