South Bend, IN (Sports Network) - Notre Dame running back Cierre Wood announced Monday he will forgo his senior season and submit his name for the 2013 NFL Draft.
Wood finished second to Theo Riddick with 742 rushing yards in 2012. He averaged 6.5 yards per carry and scored four rushing touchdowns this year, helping the Fighting Irish reach the BCS National Championship Game.
"Having to make a decision like whether to stay in school or leave to pursue a lifelong dream of playing in the NFL is never simple," Wood said. "I had to weigh many factors over the last month, but ultimately it came down to what I felt was the right decision that would most benefit my family. With that in mind, I'm leaving Notre Dame and am entering my name for this year's NFL Draft."
Wood leaves Notre Dame as the seventh-leading rusher in school history, having gained 2,447 yards on 450 career carries. His 52 career receptions are tied for eighth all-time among Notre Dame running backs.
He played in 37 games (18 starts) at Notre Dame and scored 18 total touchdowns (16 rushing and two receiving).
