While BC continues to make changes and improvements this offseason, departures are still a thing that Coach Hafley needs to navigate.

On Thursday afternoon, a big departure popped up on the radar when defensive tackle Chibueze Onwuka put a post on social media declaring for the NFL Draft. Onwuka flew under the radar in high school without a single offer and became a run stuffing machine for BC, widely considered one of the best defenders in the ACC.

Now, he’ll head to the draft with hopes of continuing to write a remarkable story.

“College football was one of the most unexpected life changing experiences I am blessed to have been part of,” Onwuka wrote in the post. “Coming out of high school without any stars or college offers would’ve been enough for many people to turn away, but my circumstances provided me with nothing but a chance to write a story that I wanted to.”

Onwuka went on to first address his family and teammates:

“Thank you for the continued support and encouragement in everything I do. Coming to a new country together has made us grow inseparable bonds. I would not have made it this far without you guys. While at BC I had a chance to make bonds that I hope last a lifetime. My experience wouldn’t have been the same without my teammates, through thick and thin you guys stuck with me and supported me. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.”

Finally, Onwuka thanked the Eagles’ community.

“These past few years has put me through every emotion. Coming in as a transfer you never know what to expect, but every day that I spent at Boston College made me realize that there is a place I can maximize my abilities athletically and academically. I would like to say thank you to Coach Vince for helping take my game to the next level, without your help and continued support I do not think I would be the player I am today. To Coach Matusz, thank you for always holding me to the highest standard and helping me improve my leadership abilities, your care and dedication are truly one of a kind. To Coach Hafley and Coach Tem, thank you for believing in me and giving me an opportunity to be the anchor of the defense. To the rest of the support staff, thank you for everything you’ve done to make my experience at BC one of a kind and one I will never forget.

“With that being said, I would like to announce that I am declaring for the 2023 NFL Draft.”