Shilique Calhoun, Defensive End, Michigan State
Overview:
Shilique Calhoun spent a couple years at Michigan State learning the ropes. After redshirting in 2011, he rarely saw the field in 2012. But once he was able to get on the field, the 6-5, 250 pound defensive end immediately made an impact. He was named the 2013 Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year after tallying 14.0 tackles-for-loss and 7.5 sacks. He forced a couple fumbles and picked off a pass too. Perhaps more impressive, is the fact that Calhoun had his biggest games against the toughest competition. Despite seeing more attention of opposing offensive lines, Calhoun still managed to total 12.5 tackles-for-loss and 8.0 sacks in 2014.
Final Projection:
Calhoun would have been a borderline first round draft pick had he opted to go to the NFL after his junior year. Instead he is back in East Lansing for one more season and he could boost his stock all the way up to the top ten. As a speed edge rusher, Calhoun is a nice fit in most NFL schemes. Strength will be added in time and Calhoun already has the speed and burst off the line to be very dangerous at the next level.
