University of Maryland linebacker Erin Henderson will forego his final year of eligibility and enter the 2008 NFL Draft.

Henderson and the Terps ended their season with a 21-14 loss to Oregon State in the Emerald Bowl. "After discussing the matter with my family in recent days, we felt like the time was right to take the next step in my playing career," Henderson said. "It was a difficult decision because I enjoyed my days at Maryland and playing in the college environment. I will certainly miss my teammates and coaches, but will always be a Terp."

Henderson was a Butkus Award semifinalist this past season and was tapped an All-American by four different media outlets.

"Erin has made a tremendous contribution to our program, both on and off the field," Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen said.  "We wish him the best in the NFL."

Henderson totaled 133 tackles on the season, including 11 tackles for loss. He also caused one fumble and recovered four others. He ranked eighth nationally and first in the Atlantic Coast Conference at the conclusion of the regular season.

A native of Aberdeen, Md., Henderson was a first-team All-ACC choice in 2007 after earning second-team honors last year. He missed the 2005 season with a knee injury. He had 16 double-digit tackle games and 247 stops in his two years in uniform.

The NFL Draft is scheduled for April 26-27.