EUGENE, Ore. — Oregon running back LaMichael James says he is skipping his senior year and declaring himself eligible for the NFL draft.
James, a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2010, says he has not hired an agent.
“My experience at the University of Oregon has been one unlike any other, and one I will never forget,” the junior from Texarkana, Texas, said in a statement released by the Ducks. “I am grateful for the people I have met, the things I have learned, and the amazing community I have had the privilege of being a part of over the last three-and-a-half years.”
A 5-foot-9, 195-pound All-American, James rushed for a school-record 1,805 yards this season despite missing two games with a dislocated right elbow. He led the nation with an average of 150.4 yards rushing a game.
James is Oregon’s all-time leading career rusher with 5,082 yards. He is the first Pac-12 player to have three straight 1,500-yard seasons.
In Oregon’s 45-38 Rose Bowl victory over Wisconsin, James rushed for 159 yards and a touchdown.
James expects to complete his degree in sociology this spring.
“I could not have asked anymore from him and I am confident he will be a success at the next level,” Oregon coach Chip Kelly said.
James has several Oregon records, including most career touchdowns (58), most career 100-yard rushing games (26) and most career points (348). He has seven career 200-yard games.
He is the eighth Duck to leave school for the draft with eligibility remaining.
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