Ohio State linebacker Pete Werner is heading to the NFL.

Werner made that announcement on Thursday morning:

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Werner played in all eight games for the Buckeyes this season, registering a team-high 54 tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss. He also contributed one pass deflection, one sack and two forced fumbles. His 54 tackles were tied for No. 17 in the Big Ten this season.

He was a three-year contributor, finishing his career with 185 total tackles, 16 tackles for loss, four sacks, 13 pass deflections, two fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles.

The senior could have returned for a fifth season of eligibility because of an NCAA waiver granted to all players in the wake of the pandemic.

While Werner is moving on, Ohio State is getting back several key contributors who are choosing to put off the NFL for another season.

Receiver Chris Olave and left tackle Thayer Munford are both returning to school after producing All-Big Ten campaigns. Defensive lineman Tyreke Smith will also be back at Ohio State next year as he looks to improve his draft stock.