Shaq Thompson scored four defensive touchdowns in 2014. (Getty Images)
Shaq Thompson scored four defensive touchdowns in 2014. (Getty Images)

One of the nation's biggest defensive playmakers is on his way to the NFL.

Washington junior linebacker and part-time running back Shaq Thompson will forgo his senior season with the Huskies and enter the 2015 NFL Draft, he announced on his Twitter feed Monday.

"After careful prayer and consideration and speaking with my family and Coach Petersen at great lengths, I have decided to declare for the 2015 NFL Draft," Thompson said in a statement. "This was not an easy decision for me, I love the University of Washington, and everything the U-Dub community has done for me these past three years.

"I personally want to thank Coach Petersen and his staff, Coach Steve Sarkisian who recruited me and gave me this tremendous opportunity; all of my teammates who I love like brothers and have forged lifelong friendships with. And last but certainly not least, our fans and Husky Nation. You guys have been there for us each and every game and this was without a doubt the best place on Earth to play college ball ... I'm excited to start the draft process, the next chapter in my life, but will forever and always be a Husky!"

Thompson was widely expected to enter the draft after earning All-America honors for his explosive 2014 season. Thomspon scored four defensive touchdowns, returning three fumbles and an interception for scores, and added 80 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and a sack. Those numbers might have been even better had Thompson not started two games at running back, going over 100 yards both times and rushing for a pair of touchdowns.

The former five-star recruit from Sacramento is widely expected to be a first-round selection in May's draft, with CBSSports.com's Rob Rang currently projecting Thompson to the Dolphins with the No. 14 overall pick.