North Carolina's Elijah Hood declares for NFL draft

North Carolina junior running back Elijah Hood announced Friday he'll forego his senior season and enter the 2017 NFL Draft.

“This was a difficult decision, but after gathering more information and talking with my family, I believe it is in my best interest to declare for the NFL draft and pursue my dream of being a professional football player,” Hood said. “While I’ll miss playing with my teammates in Chapel Hill, I’m excited about my future opportunity."

Hood rushed for 858 yards and eight touchdowns in 2016, after his coming-out party in 2015. That season, he ran for 1,463 yards - second most in a single season in school history - and 17 rushing touchdowns.

Hood ends his North Carolina career with 2,580 yards rushing - ninth most in school history - and 29 rushing touchdowns (sixth most).