A former Nebraska running back has decided to leave the game of football for an opportunity to serve the country.

Terrell Newby, who was an I-back at Nebraska from 2013-16, has decided to take a change in his career path. He’s joining the Nebraska National Guard after spending the last four years pursuing a career in professional football.

In an interview with Sam McKewon of the Omaha World-Herald, Newby said that his father, Terrell Newby Sr., served in the Army. That’s where the former Husker standout back developed a passion to be in the armed forces.

“He instilled these Army values in me,” Newby told McKewon. “I always wanted to do it, but playing football my whole life was my main focus.”

Newby said that the opportunity the National Guard provided, allowing him to have balance in his civilian life and service life, was exactly what he wanted. The former Nebraska football player is also working as a real estate developer, something he wants to continue to pursue.

Joining the Nebraska National Guard is something that thrilled Newby’s father, he said.

“He was pretty stoked and excited to get me in,” Newby said.

Before pursuing a career in professional football and joining the National Guard, Newby was a talented running back for the Huskers, rushing for 2,239 career yards and adding 354 receiving yards to his total. He accounted for 22 total touchdowns, as well.