Spartans DE Shilique Calhoun Will Return to School

Michigan State defensive end Shilique Calhoun provided his squad a major boost Sunday when he informed head coach Mike Dantonio that he will return for his senior season. Following the year, it appeared to be almost a sure thing that Calhoun would declare for the 2015 NFL Draft, but clearly the star defensive end had different plans in mind.

“I love being a part of this group, and I love playing under Coach D (Mark Dantonio),” Calhoun said at Breslin Center. “The decision boiled down to who I have above me, teaching me and guiding me.”

“I’ve got unfinished business at Michigan State.”

After two exceptional seasons, many NFL analysts projected Calhoun, a two time All-Big Ten selection, to be chosen in either the first or second round. Over those same two years Calhoun recorded 15.5 sacks to go along with 26.5 tackles for a loss. Typically, underclassmen won’t risk potential injury by returning to school, however, Calhoun is clearly focused on wrapping up his collegiate career in winning fashion. Calhoun’s dominant streak has had scouts in awe and his draft stock could skyrocket with another productive season at Michigan State.

Like Calhoun, quarterback Connor Cook will also return to school next season and the duo will be major players in the Spartans’ National Championship hopes. Michigan State ended their 2014-year on a high note, shocking the Baylor Bears 42-41 in Dallas. Michigan State returns seven players on both offense and defense and a strong recruiting class could catapult the team into their first College Football Playoff appearance.  Still, the injury concern remains a major factor for Calhoun as he brings his college career to a close.

*Section Photo credit to Leon Halip, Getty Images; Featured Photo (above) credit to Mike Carter, USA Today Sports

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