AP photo Minnesota offensive lineman Blaise Andries (77) blocks against Ohio State in the third quarter of an NCAA football game on Sept. 2.

MARSHALL — University of Minnesota offensive lineman and Marshall native Blaise Andries announced on Sunday evening that he will be declaring for the NFL Draft after the Gophers’ upcoming bowl game later this month.

Andries has helped lead the Gophers to an overall record of 8-4 and a spot in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl game against West Virginia in Phoenix, Ariz. on Dec. 28.

On his Twitter account, Andries posted a photo of his announcement, saying he chose to stay in his home state for college to help turn around the impression of the University of Minnesota’s football program and praised his coaches, teammates, family and friends, thanking them for their incredible support.

“I chose to stay home at Minnesota because I believed we could change the perception of this team to the state and the nation. This process was started and will continue with the leadership of this team, athletic department, and University,” Andries said. “I want to thank coach Fleck, coach Callahan, and all the coaches for giving me the opportunity to grow up under their watch. Thank you to my family and friends for all your support while I’ve gone on this journey. Finally, thank you to the fans of the University of Minnesota for making the past 5 years enjoyable with amazing moments. My teammates have become my brothers and I look forward to the lifelong friendships that have been created while here at the University of Minnesota.

With that being said I will be declaring for the NFL Draft after the bowl game.

Row the Boat, Ski-U-Mah, and go Gophers!”

Andries also recently earned All-Big Ten first team and Academic All-American team honors. The 2022 NFL Draft will be held from April 28-30 in Las Vegas.