Aaron Brule was one of Mississippi State’s two player representatives at 2021 SEC Football Media Days.

But the veteran linebacker is in search of a new destination.

Brule has entered the NCAA transfer portal, a source close to the team confirmed Thursday afternoon. The news was first reported by 247 Sports.

On Thursday evening, Brule released a statement via Twitter announcing his departure.

“It’s always hard to end something you never imagined coming to an end,” he said. “I would like to start off by saying thank you to the state of Mississippi and the city of Starkville.

“The relationships I’ve made in the community, with my coaches and teammates during my time will never be forgotten. I am humbled and thankful to have been able to play this game at Mississippi State.”

Brule has played for the Bulldogs since 2018, redshirting his freshman season. He started all 11 games last season, racking up 74 tackles — eight for a loss — and four sacks.

Brule saw his playing time and his production take a step back in 2021, splitting time in a rotation involving Jett Johnson and Nathaniel Watson. Still, the New Orleans native posted 53 tackles — eight for loss — and had three sacks.

Mississippi State’s 2022 recruiting class includes three-star linebackers Javae Gilmore and Khalid Moore. The Bulldogs also hope to sign four-star Madison-Ridgeland Academy linebacker Stone Blanton, who is committed to play baseball at MSU.

The Bulldogs will find out their bowl destination Sunday after a 7-5 regular season.

Theo DeRosa reports on Mississippi State sports for The Dispatch. Follow him on Twitter at @Theo_DeRosa.