After a week spent researching where he was projected to go in this April's NFL Draft, Courtney Greene decided the best way to raise his stock was back at Rutgers.

Greene, Rutgers' leading tackler this season, issued a statement on Monday, declaring his decision to put off the NFL and return to the Scarlet Knights' defensive backfield next year.

"I have decided to return to Rutgers for my senior season in 2008," Greene said, "to complete my degree and football career."

The 6-foot-2, 210-pound Greene led Rutgers in tackles for the second time in three years this season, recording 101 stops in earning All-Big East second-team honors.

"There is unfinished championship business for us to take care of here at Rutgers," said Greene, whose 299 career tackles already ranks eighth-best in Rutgers' history.

His decision came five days after Ray Rice, Rutgers' all-time leading rusher and Greene's childhood friend from New Rochelle, N.Y., declared for the NFL. But while Rice became the first junior to turn pro in Schiano's seven-year tenure, Greene is the second Scarlet Knight in three years to stiff-arm the NFL and return to Rutgers, joining Brian Leonard in the latter distinction.

"I am pleased that Courtney is returning to Rutgers to complete his degree and finish his career," Schiano said. "I look forward to big things from Courtney as a leader both on and off the field next season."

Greene's return bolters a defensive backfield that should once again be one of the nation's best next season, as All-America freshman Joe Lefeged is expected to accompany Greene at the safety spot.

With twins Jason and Devin McCourty manning the corners, Rutgers' pass defense ranked fifth nationally this season, yielding 170.6 passing yards per game.