Austin Johnson leaving Penn State for NFL draft
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Sep 5, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive tackle Austin Johnson (99) tries to break past Temple Owls offensive linesmen Kyle Friend (79) during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Temple defeated Penn State 27-10. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-USA TODAY Sports
Christian Hackenberg made the biggest headlines, but he is not the only Penn State player going to the NFL a year early.
Austin Johnson also announced that intention Saturday after the Nittany Lions lost to Georgia in the TaxSlayer Bowl.
"After much thought and consideration with my family, I have decided that the best decision for me is to forgo my senior season at Penn State," Johnson said in a statement from PSU. "I want to thank Nittany Nation for your support over the last three years. My love for Nittany Nation will be with me always."
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}A two-year starter at nose tackle, Johnson had 78 tackles, including six sacks, this season for the Nittany Lions.
A native of Galloway, N.J., Johnson received both his degree in journalism and second-team All-Big Ten recognition in December.