Columbia, SC (Betting Express) - University of South Carolina junior linebacker Eric Norwood announced Monday he has decided to return for his senior season.

After the Gamecocks lost, 31-10, to Iowa in the Outback Bowl, Norwood declared he would enter the 2009 NFL draft, according to numerous media reports. But he has reconsidered and will return for his senior year.

"I've been thinking it over and, after sitting down with my family, I have decided it would be best for me to return to South Carolina for another year," said Norwood. "Coming back for my senior year will not only improve my NFL draft status but will also help the team out. I will also be able to finish up my degree in December."

Norwood was a consensus first-team All-Southeastern Conference selection in 2008 after finishing second on his team with 75 tackles, including a team- leading 14.5 tackles for loss and 9.0 sacks. He also led South Carolina with nine quarterback hurries, while recovering two fumbles and forcing another. After the regular season, he led the SEC in sacks and was fourth in tackles for loss.

"We are certainly pleased that Eric Norwood has thought his situation out thoroughly and will be returning to South Carolina," said head coach Steve Spurrier. "He has made a smart decision for himself and a good decision for the football team."

Norwood, a 2007 first-team All-SEC selection by the SEC coaches and a 2006 Freshman All-American, is Carolina's all-time leader with 43.0 career tackles for loss and is third on the school's all-time list in sacks with 22.0. He is the SEC active leader in both categories. He has played in all 38 games over the past three seasons, making 25 consecutive starts for the Gamecocks.

Norwood helped the Gamecocks to a 7-6 record in 2008, including a 4-4 mark in the SEC.