Notre Dame running back Josh Adams declared for the NFL draft Friday, becoming the second Irish offensive standout in as many days to announce he's forgoing his senior season.
Adams, mentioned in the Heisman Trophy race for a portion of the 2017 season, finished 19th in the nation with 110 rushing yards per game and led the nation with seven runs of 60-plus yards.
"With a lot of thought, prayer and discussion with my family, I've decided to forgo my senior year and enter the 2018 NFL Draft," Adams wrote in a message posted on Instagram.
Wide receiver Equanimeous St. Brown, who led the Irish in receiving yards the last two seasons, declared for the draft Thursday.
"I chose Notre Dame because it was a place that allowed me to pursue my full potential, and it was a decision that would affect the rest of my life," Adams wrote. "I'll always have Notre Dame in my heart."
Adams totaled 1,430 rushing yards in 2017 with nine rushing touchdowns, and his average of 6.94 yards per carry ranked ninth nationally. He also led the Irish in rushing as a sophomore with 933 yards and finished second on the team as a freshman with 835. He was named a team captain this season.
With Adams' departure, Dexter Williams becomes the most experienced back for the Irish. The junior rushed for 360 yards and four touchdowns in 10 games in 2017, averaging 9.2 yards per carry.
