Michigan State Football: 3 defensive breakout candidates for spring 2022

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Michigan State defensive end Brandon Wright (26) looks to tackle Pittsburgh quarterback Davis Beville (17) during the first half of the Peach Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga. on Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021. /

Brandon Wright began his career in East Lansing as a running back. He had just 61 total rushing yards in his first two seasons with Michigan State and then Mel Tucker and Co. decided to utilize him on the defensive side of the ball and with his big frame, he looked like a solid defensive end candidate.

It seemed to work out as he had his coming-out party in the Peach Bowl, totaling four tackles and 1.5 sacks in 12 snaps. That’s what you call elite production.

Although he hasn’t played a ton during his Michigan State career and has just 34 career defensive snaps, according to his MSU profile, he did have seven tackles and 2.5 sacks. He made the most of his time on the field which shows that he can be a solid contributor, especially with Brandon Jordan and Marco Coleman molding him into a much better pass-rusher.

Michigan State could use some pass-rushing help off the edge and the athletic Wright seems like the perfect option to back up Florida transfer Khris Bogle. He could cause some havoc off the edge.

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