By Matt Mauney | Staff Writer
The recipient of a long list of offers, Devyn Salmon recently came to the decision to play his college ball at Michigan State. The 6-foot-1, 285-pound defensive tackle is about to begin his senior season with Plant City High School, but he has a solid verbal with the Spartans. Some of the other schools that offered the prospect include Iowa State, Wake Forest, West Virginia, Missouri and Cincinnati, where 2012 PCHS graduate Bennie Coney is fighting for spot on the depth chart at quarterback.
What made you choose Michigan State?
It felt like a family between me and the alumni, recruits and commits. I just felt at home, even though I haven’t visited yet, just from talking with the alumni and people like that.
Are you planning to visit this fall?
I’m planning on going up there Sept. 15. I know they’re playing Notre Dame that day, so I’ll have a chance to go to that. I’m planning on visiting up there at least two or three times, and I think each time will be better.
Other than Michigan State, what schools did it come down to?
Cincinnati, West Virginia and Missouri.
Do you have any connections at Michigan State?
Yes. Denzel Drone plays with them already. He’ll be a junior with them and played here at Plant City. I talk to him almost every week.
Have you always played defensive tackle?
Actually, my freshman year I played a little running back and linebacker at East Bay. I wasn’t really fast enough to play running back and didn’t really have the stamina for linebacker, so they moved me to defensive tackle, and I’ve been loving it.
What do you like most about that position?
Honestly, the defensive tackles get all the tackles, so it makes your stats go up. Also, in the trenches, that’s the most important part of the defense. I just love playing defense.
Do you play any other sports?
I wrestle and do shot put for track.
Was going as far away as Michigan State a concern for you?
I know it’s a long way from home, but I think it will be all worth it in the long run. I look at Jerel Worthy, how he got drafted and everything (NFL, Green Bay Packers), and he and I play the same way.
What’s your favorite movie?
“The Blind Side.”
Do you have an idea of what you want to study at MSU?
I’d like to study psychology. If that doesn’t work out, then nursing, and if that doesn’t work out, then sports medicine. So that’s my A, B and C plan.
