Michigan State Football: 5 players who could surprise in 2018

ANN ARBOR, MI - OCTOBER 07: Tyriq Thompson #17 of the Michigan State Spartans leads the team onto the field 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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DETROIT, MI – NOVEMBER 12: Quarterback Tylin Oden #14 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights leaps thru the tackle of defensive end Justice Alexander #97 of the Michigan State Spartans during a college football game at Spartan Stadium on November 12, 2016 in East Lansing, Michigan. The Spartans defeated the Knights 49-0. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images) /

Yes, another defensive end makes the list. I feel like people have long been waiting for Justice Alexander to break out because of his frame and athleticism, but it just hasn’t happened yet.

Heading into spring ball, he was earning praise from the coaching staff and this could finally be the year he puts it all together.

Alexander has appeared in just two career games, recording four total tackles against Bowling Green in 2017 and Rutgers in 2016. Not exactly a glowing resume, but he’s been buried on the depth chart. With Demetrius Cooper gone, he will now have a chance to fight for snaps with sophomore Jacub Panasiuk.

At 6-foot-5, 257 pounds, Alexander has the perfect frame for the position. He needs to show a little more toughness, but the open spot is screaming his name.

If he didn’t think he had a chance to contribute in a big way, he would have transferred by now. Keep an eye on this kid.

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