Auburn will have to replace both of its top running backs next season.
Redshirt-junior Kamryn Pettway is forgoing his senior season to enter the NFL Draft. He is the third Auburn underclassmen to enter this year's draft, joining fellow running back Kerryon Johnson and cornerback Carlton Davis.
"I'd like to thank God for everything that I have been given in my life," Pettway wrote via Instagram. "Without him, I wouldn't have anything. I'm also extremely grateful to coach Malzahn & the entire staff for giving me an opportunity to play for the blue and orange. Thank you to the fan base for your support over the past 4 years.
"It had always been my dream to play big time college football. After taking the time to think about the future and what's best for my family, it's now time for me to fulfill another dream in playing in the NFL. I'm humbled an excited for this opportunity for my family."
Pettway had 76 carries for 305 yards and six touchdowns in five games this season while coping with various injuries and was suspended for the season opener for undisclosed reasons. The Montgomery native has not spoken publicly since suffering a fractured shoulder blade against Arkansas on Oct. 2, began the season with plantar fasciitis and also suffered an ankle injury against Mercer.
He did not attend the Peach Bowl, but was with the team for its last on-campus practice on Dec. 21, wearing an orange no-contact jersey.
Pettway had 1,224 rushing yards and seven touchdowns and was the SEC's leader in rushing yards per game (122.4) in 2016, despite missing three games due to injury and not getting a carry in the season opener against Clemson. He was a first team All-SEC selection and named Auburn's Offensive MVP in 2016.
The 6-foot, 235-pound running back finishes his college career with 285 carries for 1,529 yards with 13 touchdowns and six receptions for 58 yards.
"I appreciate Kam Pettway's time at Auburn," coach Gus Malzahn said in a statement. "When healthy, he was a dominant running back. We'll be rooting for him moving forward and wish him nothing but the best."
It's unclear if Pettway, who is married with a two-year old daughter, had a loss of value insurance policy for this season and if so, for how much and how likely he would be able to collect after suffering a variety of injuries.
James Crepea is an Auburn beat reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @JamesCrepea.