By Matt Leon

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Temple University running back Bernard Pierce has decided to forgo his senior season and enter the NFL Draft.

Pierce was the main weapon for the Owls during the 9-4 2011 campaign, rushing for 1,481 yards and 27 touchdowns.  His name is all over the Temple record book.  He is the school’s career leader rushing touchdowns (53), total touchdowns (54), and points scored (324).

He also holds Temple’s single-season records for rushing touchdowns (27), total touchdowns (27), points scored (162), and 100-yard rushing games (9).

The 2012 NFL Draft begins on April 26th.