The Spartan defense can breathe a sigh of relief, junior defensive end and captain Shilique Calhoun announced he would return to MSU for his senior season.
After losing safety Kurtis Drummond, linebacker Mylan Hicks, defensive lineman James Kittredge, linebacker Taiwan Jones, defensive end Marcus Rush to graduation and cornerback Trae Waynes to the NFL Draft, keeping Calhoun will benefit the Spartans defense in 2015.
After the departure of defensive coordinator Pat Narduzzi, who took a job at Pittsburgh to become the new head coach, the return of Calhoun will make new defensive coordinators Harlon Barnett and Mike Tressel’s job much easier.
The two-time all-american (2013, 2014), Bednarik and Lombardi Award semifinalist, two-time first-team all Big Ten (2013, 2014) and 2013 Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year is projected as a late first-round pick on multiple websites but according to head coach Mark Dantonio another year could cement his status as an early first-round pick.
“There isn’t any question that Shilique (Calhoun) would have been a high pick if he had elected to enter this year’s NFL Draft,” Dantonio said. “With another season under his belt he can further his enhance his status as a first-round selection and firmly establish himself as a Top 20 draft choice.”
A leading factor in Calhoun’s decision to return for his senior season was completing his degree.
“I made the decision to return to Michigan State in order to complete my education and earn my bachelor’s degree (in Criminal Justice), that’s an important investment in my future.”
Despite the loss of Narduzzi, Calhoun said his love for his teammates and coaching staff was also a factor in his return. Despite a comeback win in the Cotton Bowl against Baylor, Calhoun and the team wanted more, falling short of the College Football Playoff and Big Ten Championship influenced the defensive end’s decision to return.
“I love my teammates and this coaching staff, even with the loss of Pat Narduzzi, it means a great deal to me to be able to wear the Michigan State uniform for one more year.
“We fell short of our ultimate goal. I want another opportunity to win a Big Ten Championship and to earn a spot in the College Football Playoff, with a chance to win a National Championship. As a team, we know what needs to be done for our program to take the next step.”
