Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Big Ten sacks leader Nick Herbig of Wisconsin announced Saturday that he is declaring for the NFL draft.

The linebacker was named Badgers MVP and earned All-Big Ten first-team honors while recording a conference-leading 11 sacks. He had 47 tackles, including 15.5 for loss, and forced two fumbles.

The three-year starter thanked former Badgers coaches Paul Chryst and Jim Leonhard while making his announcement on Twitter.

"My teammates are truly brothers for life, and it was an honor serving as a captain this season," Herbig wrote. "Badger nation, you are the best fans in the country! From Camp Randall Stadium to every game on the road, you supported our team and brought the energy.

"It has been a childhood dream of mine to play football at the highest level. After many discussions with my family, I have decided to declare for the NFL Draft."

Herbig recorded 21 career sacks, which is tied for eighth in Wisconsin history. He had 36 career tackles for loss.

Herbig's older brother, Nate, is an offensive lineman for the New York Jets. The fourth-year pro spent his first three NFL seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Mavs get good news on Maxi Kleber ahead of Game 4
Patriots exec discusses team's approach to QB competition
Braves to promote No. 3 prospect for MLB debut Wednesday
Diamondbacks release veteran infielder
Packers' former first-round pick planning to make 'monster leap'
NFLPA finalizing proposal for major change to offseason schedule
LeBron James shouts out Jaylen Brown after Celtics advance to NBA Finals
Pacers collapse down the stretch as Celtics sweep ECF
Hall of Famer, beloved broadcaster Bill Walton dead at 71
Jason Robertson leads Stars to comeback win over Oilers in Game 3
Despite recent form, Rafael Nadal's legacy is still gold standard for tennis
Bengals coach offers significant injury update on QB Joe Burrow
MLB officials expect automated ball-strike system to be implemented in 2026
Vikings reportedly considered Justin Jefferson trade during NFL Draft
A matured Kyrie Irving is finally proving to be the star we all knew he could be
Insider: Sixers 'a threat' to sign LeBron James in free agency
Week 14 NASCAR rankings: Larson's no-show shakes up the running order
Three hitters Braves should target after losing Ronald Acuna Jr.
Shohei Ohtani shares major update on his pitching rehab
Status of Pacers' Tyrese Haliburton revealed for Game 4 of ECF

Want more sports news?

Join the hundreds of thousands of fans who start their day with Yardbarker's Morning Bark, the best newsletter in sports.