Iowa State defensive end MJ Anderson declares for the NFL Draft

Defensive end M.J. Anderson announced on Twitter that he's entering the 2023 NFL Draft.
Defensive end M.J. Anderson announced on Twitter that he's entering the 2023 NFL Draft.

Iowa State defensive end MJ Anderson declared for the 2023 NFL Draft on Wednesday, according to his Twitter account.

“After prayers and conversations with my family, I have decided that it is time for me to take all I’ve learned onto the next level and declare for the 2023 NFL Draft,” he wrote.

The 6-foot-3 Minnesota transfer played all 12 games in his first season at Iowa State. He’s leaving with one season of eligibility remaining.

“One of the things I have enjoyed about M.J. is he loves football,” said coach Matt Campbell during the season. “Even through his journey of getting back healthy, it’s been a real joy to watch his process. He’s got a chance to be really special.”

Iowa State defensive end MJ Anderson, a likely starter next season, has declared for the NFL Draft.
Iowa State defensive end MJ Anderson, a likely starter next season, has declared for the NFL Draft.

Anderson had 37 tackles, 3 ½ sacks and a fumble recovery. After backing up senior Will McDonald Jr., Anderson was expected to start next season.

“I’m just having fun," Anderson said during the season. "This is probably the best time in my life right about now.”

Iowa State columnist Randy Peterson embarked on his 50th year of writing sports for the Des Moines Register in December 2021. Reach him at rpeterson@dmreg.com, 515-284-8132, and on Twitter @RandyPete.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa State football's MJ Anderson declares for 2023 NFL Draft