East Lansing, MI (Sports Network) - Michigan State running back Le'Veon Bell and tight end Dion Sims have their sights set on the pros.

After successful careers with the Spartans, both players declared for the NFL Draft on Thursday via Twitter.

Bell posted the second-best rushing season in Michigan State history this past year, amassing 1,793 yards and 12 touchdowns on 382 carries.

He tweeted "As hard as it was to leave spartan nation, it was even harder to pass on such a great opportunity I have in front of me! But I love and thank spartan nation for everything! I will always be a Spartan!"

In a separate statement, Bell said "This was the hardest decision of my life. It's difficult to leave my teammates and coaches as well as Spartan Nation, but I couldn't pass on pursuing my dream and the opportunity to change my mom's life."

Sims, a fourth-year junior, got the opportunity to start at tight end this season for the Spartans and recorded 36 catches for 475 yards with two touchdowns. For his career, he made 59 receptions for 707 yards and eight scores over 39 contests.

"I want to thank #SpartanNation for 4 of the best years of my life! I'll always bleed green & white!!!," tweeted Sims.

01/03 21:01:54 ET