University of Toledo running back Bryant Koback announced Friday that he is declaring for the NFL draft. 

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— Bryant Koback (@koback_22) January 7, 2022

“It was probably the best decision I've ever made in my life thus far,” Koback said of playing football at Toledo. “I've built great relationships with teammates and was able to play in front of my hometown. And I mean that means the world to me alone, so it's just a blessing.”

On 208 carries this season, Koback rushed for 1,400 yards and 15 touchdowns. He averaged a career-best 107.7 rushing yards per game. Koback also caught 30 passes for 334 yards and three scores. 

“I just felt like I was mentally and physically prepared. I've set myself up pretty good statistically and I just felt confident in my ability to make that decision,” Koback said.

The Holland native was a preseason All-Mid American Conference selection by Athlon and Phil Steele. Koback was on the preseason watch list for the Doak Walker Award, which honors the top running back in college football.

Koback was a three-star recruit and the No. 37 running back in 2017, according to 247Sports, out of Springfield High School. He earned Division II first-team All-State honors from the Associated Press in 2015.

“You're getting a highly accountable, highly motivated guy that really loves the game and really works diligently to improve each and every day,” Rockets coach Jason Candle said. “And always going to be in the right spot, always going to do the right thing.

“The videotape speaks for itself, but the character the young man has and what he's been able to accomplish is been outstanding. And I think he's got a lot of success and a lot of great moments coming in his future.”

He finishes his Toledo career with 679 carries for 4,026 rushing yards and 45 touchdowns. Koback caught 66 passes for 654 yards and seven touchdowns in 44 games as a Rocket. 

First Published January 7, 2022, 5:45 p.m.