Michigan State Football: 5 players who could surprise in 2018

ANN ARBOR, MI - OCTOBER 07: Michigan State Spartans head football coach Mark Dantonio talks with his team prior to the start of the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium on October 7, 2017 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /

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Todd is unlikely the first name that pops into the minds of MSU fans when thinking about potential impact players at defensive end, but there’s reason to believe he could be a playmaker as soon as this season. The redshirt freshman, who flipped from Boston College to MSU shortly before National Signing Day, was reportedly a breakout star on the Spartans scout team this past season.

A versatile and disruptive player who could play both inside and outside, Todd will have a great shot to earn playing time, as the Spartans are a bit thin at defensive end following a few dismissals, transfers and graduations.

Redshirt junior Kenny Willekes returns to hold down his starting spot, but the defensive end spot opposite him is available now that Demetrius Cooper’s eligibility has expired. Rising senior Dillon Alexander started four games last season, but was not very productive (four tackles) with that opportunity.

While there is clear competition for the role — Jacub Panasiuk earned some significant playing time as a true freshman and sophomore Brandon Randle possesses a tantalizing mix of speed and athleticism — it would not surprise me if Todd makes a strong impression and earns valuable playing time in 2018.

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