Michigan State linebacker Antjuan Simmons, a third-team All-Big Ten selection from the league’s coaches, declared for the 2021 NFL draft on Friday.
Simmons is a senior but could have returned for next season because the NCAA granted a blanket extra year of eligibility for the 2020 season due to COVID-19.
“This has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make due to the love I have for Michigan State,” he wrote in a social media post. “It’s been a pleasure and I’m going to miss every second of it. It’s time to take the next step and chase my dreams.”
Simmons led the Spartans with 75 tackles, including nine for loss, in a 2-5 regular season that ended Saturday with a loss at Penn State. Simmons also had a sack, broke up two passes and recovered two fumbles.
Simmons also led the team in tackles in 2019 with 90. He made 231 tackles, including 26 for loss and 4.5 sacks, in 46 career games.
Michigan State junior cornerback Shakur Brown and senior defensive tackle Naquan Jones have also announced their intentions to turn pro.
