CORAL GABLES, Fla. – Miami star Duke Johnson will forgo his senior season and declare for the NFL Draft.
The running back is the Hurricanes' all-time leading rusher.
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Johnson's mother may have tipped his hand Saturday.
Before Saturday's bowl game, Johnson's mother told the Palm Beach Post that it was his final game in a 'Canes uniform.
Johnson made his announcement as a birthday present to his mother.
He cited the lifespan of an NFL running back as a reason.
Johnson plans to continue working towards his UM degree.
Johnson was the star on offense for a 'Canes team that finished a disappointing 6-7.
"Of course there was back and forth," Johnson said. "As a kid, I always wanted to come here. I loved it. I didn't want to leave it. At the same time, like I mentioned before, the life for running backs isn't that high. I think it's best to get out when I can."