Penn State football’s top-producing transfer is heading to the big leagues.

Defensive end Arnold Ebiketie officially declared for the 2022 NFL Draft on Tuesday on the heels of an extremely productive season with the Nittany Lions. As a result, he’ll skip Penn State’s upcoming Outback Bowl matchup against No. 21 Arkansas.

Dreams to reality
Ak out pic.twitter.com/HO2J1kib2U

— Dr. Arnold Ebiketie (@A7chronic) December 28, 2021

“Looking back on the journey to when I was first introduced to the game of football, I never imagined I would be in this position today,” Ebiketie wrote in a statement. “Nittany Nation, thank you for the love and support. I can’t begin to express my gratitude fully for the support from the fans. It’s been an honor to suit up in the Blue & White with this legendary fan base cheering us on.”

Ebiketie arrived in Happy Valley after playing for Temple from 2017 to 2020. As a redshirt senior for Penn State, he racked up 62 total tackles and a team-leading 18 tackles for a loss — nine more than any other Nittany Lion. Additionally, Ebiketie stuffed the stat sheet with 9.5 sacks, seven quarterback hits, two forced fumbles, and even two blocked kicks.

Arnold Ebiketie and Brandon Smith combine for the BIG play
pic.twitter.com/qFwTO4s7WL

— Onward State (@OnwardState) October 3, 2021

According to the Pro Football Network, Ebiketie could find himself landing somewhere in the NFL Draft’s middle rounds. While he’s not among this year’s superstar products, his productive finale at Penn State alone should convince a lucky team to take a chance on him.

Ebiketie joins a handful of Penn State stars who’ve opted out of the Outback Bowl and declared for the draft. Starting linebackers Brandon Smith and Ellis Brooks got things started before star receiver Jahan Dotson and safety Jaquan Brisker opted out on Monday, too.