Michigan State Football: Top 50 players of all time
49. Jerel Worthy
It’s tough to see former Spartan defensive tackle Jerel Worthy struggle to find a job in the NFL, especially with how successful his career at Michigan State was.
Not exactly the highest touted recruit out of high school, Worthy had a huge frame and put up some great numbers in his senior season at Wayne High School in Huber Heights, Ohio, recording 50 tackles, 10.5 sacks and 12 QB hurries. He made a name for himself because of that, but the Spartans noticed his potential early on.
As a true freshman in 2009, he had 37 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks and two pass deflections, earning himself a solid spot as a starter on MSU’s defensive line.
Worthy’s sophomore season was even more impressive as he finished with 40 tackles, eight tackles of loss and four sacks. His NFL Draft stock was rising by the week and the Spartans knew they would have a tough time keeping him around for four years. After a junior season in which he recorded 30 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks, Worthy chose to head to the NFL.
One of the most physically-imposing defensive linemen in MSU history might have been better off giving college one more year and seeing his draft stock continue to elevate. He was picked 51st overall in 2012 by the Green Bay Packers and his professional career has been a major disappointment.
Next: 48. Aaron Burbridge