Isiah Pacheco is headed to the NFL.

The 4th-year junior running back had a chance to come back for a 5th year at Rutgers if he wanted, due to the eligibility freeze brought on last year by COVID, but said it was “time for me to begin a new chapter.” He announced the decision Tuesday via Twitter.

“First and foremost,” he wrote, “I would like to thank God for putting me in this position that I am in today. I am beyond grateful for my experience at Rutgers University. To be able to stay home and represent my home state was truly a dream come true. I am forever grateful to my family for their unconditional love and support.

“I couldn’t be more thankful for Coach Schiano and all my coaches who have helped me grow both on and off the field. But most of all, I want to thank my teammates. You are my brothers for life. You have picked me up when I was down and pushed me to be the best I can be. Last and certainly not least, I want to thank Rutgers Nation. Your support has meant the world to me and my family. With that being said, it is time for me to begin a new chapter. I’m excited to announce my declaration for the NFL Draft.”

The Vineland, New Jersey native ran for 654 yards on 167 carries this season and found the endzone 5 times. He ends his career with 2,449 rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns (1 receiving).

Rutgers’ season ended on Saturday with a 40-16 loss to Maryland. The Scarlet Knights were playing for bowl eligibility in coach Greg Schiano’s 2nd year with the program, but losses in its last 2 games kept them just 1 win shy of the first .500 season since 2014.