Florida redshirt junior defensive tackle Caleb Brantley announced in an open letter posted on SEC Country that he'll forgo his senior season and declare for the 2017 NFL Draft.
"For the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of playing for the University of Florida and Gator Nation," Brantley said. "Now, I’m fortunate enough to start the next chapter of my life and career. I will be forgoing my senior season and entering the NFL draft.
"Like many kids, this was always a dream for me. But to play in the NFL, you must be a professional and a person of good character."
Brantley played in all 13 games in 2016, recording 31 tackles (9.5 for loss) and 2.5 sacks. For his career, he finishes with 81 tackles (20 for loss) and 5.5 sacks.
The defensive tackle joins cornerbacks Jalen Tabor and Quincy Wilson, linebacker Alex Anzalone, and offensive tackle David Sharpe in leaving the Gators early for the 2017 NFL Draft.