Arkansas Running Back Alex Collins to Enter 2016 NFL Draft, Forgo Senior Season

Arkansas running back Alex Collins won't be returning to the college game in 2016. Instead, he'll forgo his final season of eligibility to enter the 2016 NFL Draft. The star running back announced the decision in a letter that was posted on Arkansas' athletics website.

"After much prayer and discussion with the people who love me, I have made the decision to enter the NFL Draft," he wrote.

And while the decision to enter the draft may look like an easy choice, it was one that Collins fought over for weeks. However, the once in a lifetime opportunity to enter the draft – especially for a running back, a position that is notorious to have a short life span in the NFL – and capitalize on his talent, was one that ultimately outweighed the prospect of returning to school.

Collins' time at the University of Arkansas was one that saw much personal success, which is something he is extremely thankful for. He expressed thanks and gratitude to his teammates, the coaching staff, and the academic staff as well, but was especially appreciative of the belief showed in him by his coach.

He said:

"Coach Bielema has been a guiding mentor in my life for several years and I want to personally thank him for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to play at Arkansas.

"I also want to thank the coaching staff, academic staff, and my teammates for helping make my time at the University of Arkansas successful."

Collins, a second-team all-SEC member, was expected to split time with Jonathan Williams to make up one of the best one-two punches in all of the SEC. However, Collins was forced to shoulder the brunt of the workload when Williams suffered a broken left foot in an August scrimmage, according to Yahoo! Sports. He went on to rush the ball more than 270 times for just under 1600 yards, while also scoring 20 touchdowns.

Collins finished his college career on a high note, rushing for 185 yards and three touchdowns in their 45-23 Liberty Bowl victory over Kansas State. He joins teammate Hunter Henry as Arkansas players to forgo their season seasons to enter the draft.