Michigan State Football: 5 players who could fill in for Ed Davis

Nov 29, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Michigan State Spartans linebacker Shane Jones (49) and defensive end Shilique Calhoun (89) react following the completion of the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Michigan State defeated Penn State 34-10. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O

Shane Jones came to East Lansing in the same class as Jon Reschke and the two four-stars were expected to take over the middle of the defense for years to come. That’s still a possibility as two of three linebackers, assuming Ed Davis doesn’t get a sixth year, will be moving on next year.

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Right now, Jones is second on the depth chart at the middle linebacker position behind only Riley Bullough and he could be the next man up there.

We have seen it before, though, as players have switched positions to help the team out. While it may not seem like that big of a move for a player to go from middle to outside linebacker, it requires an entirely new outlook and new responsibilities on the defense.

If there’s anyone talented enough to make the smooth transition, it’s Jones. Coming out of high school as a highly-touted four-star recruit, the middle linebacker is highly though of by Coach D.

The Spartans have had luck with linebackers by the last name ‘Jones’ in the past as Greg Jones happens to be the best linebacker in Dantonio’s tenure at MSU. It’s possible Shane could start at the Mike and Riley Bullough could move over to the ‘money’ linebacker spot.

Next: 3. Drake Martinez