Austin, TX -- (Sports Network) - University of Texas running back Jamaal Charles decided on Wednesday to leave school early and declare for the 2008 NFL draft.

As a junior, Charles racked up 1,619 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns on 258 carries and added 17 receptions for 199 yards -- giving him 1,818 yards from scrimmage which ranks fifth on the school's single-season list. He shared team MVP honors with quarterback Colt McCoy.

"I can't thank coach Brown, coach Rucker, everyone at UT and all of the fans enough," said Charles. "They gave me a great opportunity and supported me so much. UT is a wonderful place and everyone has been good to me, but playing in the NFL has always been my dream and when the NFL report came back, I was happy with the grade and felt like it was best for me to enter the draft."

A three-time All-Big 12 selection and Big 12 Freshman of the Year, Charles ends his Longhorns tenure fourth on the school's rushing list with 3,328 yards, tied for fifth in rushing TDs (36), and placed fourth in total touchdowns with 39.

The native of Port Arthur, Texas was also a four-time All-American in track and field for the university.

"I may be going to the NFL but I'll always be a Longhorn," Charles added. "I'm definitely going to continue working towards my degree. Finishing school is really important to me because I want to have a good life after football."