Michigan edge Jaylen Harrell discloses for the 2024 NFL Draft

A 2023 defense leader is going pro.

Jaylen Harrell, a Michigan edge rusher, announced on social media Friday afternoon that he will forego his last two seasons of collegiate eligibility to enter the NFL Draft.

“The last four years have been life-changing, truly amazing, and better than I could have imagined,” Harrell said in a statement. “In four years, I’ve attended the world’s best university, donned the mighty winged helmet, and earned my degree.” I’ll leave college as a three-time Big Ten Champion, Rose Bowl Champion, and National Champion. There is nothing like Ann Arbor and The University of Michigan!”

Jaylen Harrell has declared for the 2024 NFL Draft, per his Instagram pic.twitter.com/8BWJBGy6bs

— JJ McCarthy Fan (@JJOneOfOne) January 12, 2024

Harrell had 11 sacks and 20 tackles for loss in his Michigan career. He appeared in 44 games, starting 31 of them. He finished the season with 7.5 sacks, which tied him for third in the conference. He was an honorable mention All-Big Ten selection the last two years, both as a full-time starter.

The senior pass rusher redshirted his rookie year and had a COVID year of eligibility left, but he believed it was the time to move on as a champion:

“I’d like to thank all of my teammates. We’ve fought side by side through the ups and downs, and I’m grateful for the lasting ties we’ve formed over the last four years,” he added in his declaration. “We were a part of something special.” We formed an unbreakable bond as a team that will last a lifetime. Forever my brothers! We made history as a family, going undefeated 15-0 and winning the national championship!”

Harrell, who stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 242 pounds, will be a sought-after pass rusher at the next level. He joins offensive lineman LaDarius Henderson and Zainter, as well as linebacker Junior Colson, as Michigan Wolverines players who have declared for the 2024 NFL Draft.