Austin, TX -- (Sports Network) - University of Texas tight end Jermichael Finley announced Monday he has decided to leave school and enter the NFL Draft.

"The NFL is every football player's dream and when my NFL grade came back, it was encouraging and I felt like it was in my best interest to enter the draft," Finley said. "I've worked really hard for three years at Texas to prepare for this and I think I'm ready for the challenge."

Finley, a redshirt sophomore, was an honorable mention All-Big 12 selection in 2007, catching 45 passes for 575 yards and two touchdowns. In 2006, Finley was an honorable mention to the freshman All-American team, when he caught 31 passes for 372 yards and three touchdowns.

All-time among Texas tight ends, Finley ranks third in receptions and sixth in receiving yards.

"He finished his career ranked among the most productive receiving tight ends in school history and handled himself well both on and off the field during his time at Texas," Texas head coach Mack Brown said. "He's leaving in good academic standing and we hope he will come back to finish his degree in the future."