Illinois linebacker Jake Hansen has declared for the NFL Draft, he announced Monday. Hansen leaves Champaign-Urbana as one of the top defenders in takeaways in program history. 

Hansen said in a statement, quote - "Thank you to my family, coaches, friends, and fans for an unbelievable five seasons at the University of Illinois. It has been an honor to wear the Orange & Blue at Memorial Stadium in front of the best fans in the nation. I have made memories and friends that will last a lifetime. I know I will miss my time in Champaign!"

Hansen has 14 takeaways in the last two seasons, the most of any player in the nation. His 10 career forced fumbles are tied for third-most in program history, behind only Illinois legends Simeon Rice (13) and Whitney Mercilus (11). 

After leading the nation in forced fumbles (7) and forced fumbles per game (0.78) in 2019, Hansen had another big season during the abbreviated 2020 campaign. He is eighth in the Big Ten in tackles this season with the #4 tackling grade in the nation (min. 300 snaps) and had four straight Big Ten games with either a forced fumble, fumble recovery or interception. 

In his statement, he addressed incoming coach Bret Bielema, saying quote - "I know the program is in great hands with the players in that locker room, Josh Whitman, and Coach Bielema. I look forward to watching their success for years to come. Nothing but love for Illini Nation!"

Hansen finishes his Fighting Illini career with 235 tackles, 26.0 TFLs, 7.0 sacks, 10 forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries and three interceptions.