Michigan State football trio ready to extend Spartans’ NFL draft streak
By Carlos Araoz
1. Shakur Brown, CB
Shakur Brown burst onto the scene this past fall in the Michigan State secondary as a full-time starter at cornerback. He elected to leave school a year early as his stock was as high as it will ever be after a stellar season. He was second in the nation with five interceptions (he also broke up four passes and made 25 tackles).
Brown posted some fantastic numbers in front of scouts at MSU’s pro day back in March. He showed nice leaping ability with a vertical jump north of 35 inches and he put on an outstanding display of strength for his position by bench pressing 225 pounds 17 times. He is a cover corner with a ton of tools.
He could sneak into the third round as a day-two pick but several mock drafts have him coming off the board in the 4-6 round range. His interception total indicates how adept he is at being decisive and quick when he sees a quarterback releasing the football.
If he lands with the right franchise, he could find a role as a nickelback on passing downs and without a doubt, he has the capability to develop into a starter down the road if his rapid growth rolls on. Brown blankets receivers and has phenomenal ball skills.