Wisconsin running back Braelon Allen makes it official: He has played his final college game, is off to the NFL

MADISON – The anticipated has become reality.

Braelon Allen has played his final game for Wisconsin.

Allen announced his plans Tuesday on social media.

“Playing for Wisconsin and wearing the Motion W has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Allen said in a video. “I was proud to carry on the incredible legacy of RBU and follow in the footsteps of so many great running backs.

“I’ve tried to represent UW and my state with dignity and pride and I wanted to leave this program on even more solid footing than when I arrived and I have no doubt the Badgers are headed in the right direction.

I want to thank everyone who has helped me along the way. There are far too many people to name but I am extremely grateful. It’s always been my dream to play in the NFL and I believe I’m ready to chase that next step.

“I’m excited to announce that I’m declaring for the 2024 NFL draft.”

That declaration means the junior tailback from Fond du Lac fashioned a memorable performance in is his final game, UW’s 28-14 victory over rival Minnesota on Saturday.

Allen rushed 26 times for 165 yards, 6.3 yards per carry, and two touchdowns. He also caught three passes for 27 yards.

Allen broke the 100-yard mark for the 20th time in 35 games at UW and finished the season with 984 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Allen broke the 100-yard mark eight times as a freshman in 2021, seven times as a sophomore in 2022 and six times in 11 games this season.

At 3,494 rushing yards in three seasons, Allen is No. 9 on UW’s all-time rushing mark. He passed Alan Ameche (3,345), John Clay (3,413), Terrell Fletcher (3,414) and Brent Moss (3,429) with his performance vs. Minnesota.

Without Allen, UW likely will enter its bowl game with Cade Yacamelli, Jackson Acker and freshman Nate White at tailback.

Yacamelli rushed nine times for 33 yards against Minnesota, pushing his season totals to 124 yards on 29 carries.

Acker, who was not available at Minnesota, has rushed 58 times for 236 yards and one touchdown.

White has not played this season.

“Much love to my teammates and coaches,” Allen said. “Once a Badger, always a Badger.

“On Wisconsin.”