A key piece of Georgia's defense has declared for the NFL draft.

All-American linebacker Roquan Smith announced that he would forgo his final season of eligibility to enter the draft, where he is widely projected to be a first-round pick.

"What we accomplished this year is only the beginning of what’s to come for this program. I’m proud to be a part of the foundation that Coach (Kirby) Smart is building on and his leadership and direction are going to bring many more great times and memories to the Bulldog Nation," Smith said in a statement.

“As you know this is somewhat of a crossroads for me. I’ve had discussions with coaches and family and a lot of thought and prayer. The decision to leave is not easy but I know it is the right one. Georgia will always be my school and my home and I sincerely wish all the best to the coaches, staff, and players as they continue to reach higher goals in the years to come.”

Smith, a consensus All-American, waited until Monday, the last day for underclassmen to declare for the draft, to make his announcement.

He led a powerful Bulldogs defense with 137 tackles and 14 tackles for loss, and his 6.5 sacks were second to teammate Davin Bellamy's this season.

Smith won the Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker and even got some Heisman attention with three first-place votes.

“Words cannot describe how much Roquan has meant to our program," Smart said. "The accolades he has received are a testimony to his ability as a player. But he has also demonstrated on and off the field the qualities of a great leader who has commanded the respect of all his teammates as well as our coaching and support staffs. As the head coach, it’s been a privilege to see him develop as a student-athlete and inspirational leader who has made immeasurable contributions to our team and to the program we are building.

"While we will miss him, we wish him all the best and know that great success awaits him at the next level.”