Michigan State cornerback Trae Waynes will skip his final season of college eligibility and enter the NFL draft, the school confirmed.
ESPN's Joe Schad reported Waynes' decision to leave East Lansing on Friday night.
The All-America cornerback had three interceptions and broke up eight passes during his junior season with the Spartans. He is projected by some as a potential first-round draft pick. Waynes is the 23rd-ranked prospect, according to ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr.
"Once we got the feedback from the NFL, I talked about things with the coaches and my family, and ultimately decided this is what I wanted to do," Waynes said in a statement. "I have never really paid attention to pre-draft player rankings. In fact, I wasn't even aware that some draft analysts had me rated as the No. 1 corner. So I didn't make my decision based on those ratings, I made it because I have an opportunity to pursue my dream to play pro football.
"I've dreamt about this since I was a little boy, and I didn't want to miss this chance."
Waynes said he couldn't think of a better way to finish his career than the team's dramatic, 42-41 victory over No. 5 Baylor in the Cotton Bowl last week.
Waynes was the team's top cornerback this season in his second season as a starter.
Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio said Waynes is ready for the next level.
"Trae is a lock-down corner, who played an important role in our success the last two years," Dantonio said in a statement. "He's an excellent press corner, who's often been isolated against our opponent's top wide receiver. He has great deep-ball judgment and the ability to tackle in space. Physically, Trae has length and great make-up speed."
Waynes is the third Spartan cornerback to be named a first-team All-Big Ten selection in the last three years.
Michigan State is still waiting to hear if fellow all-conference defender Shilique Calhoun will return for his senior season or join Waynes in the NFL draft.