Top 5 Linebackers in MSU History
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Nov 16, 2013; Starkville, MS, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs linebacker Benardrick McKinney (50) tries to pump up the crowd noise against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first quarter at Davis Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Is Mississippi State becoming Linebacker U? It was tough to find just five guys who would compile a list like this with so many greats through the years…but I have done so.
What’s more – State has three players on Superbowl rosters between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots, who will be playing each other in SuperBowl XLIX next week:
- KJ Wright (Seahawks)
- Chris White (Patriots)
- Deontae Skinner (Patriots; practice squad)
All of those players have one thing in common – they played linebacker at Mississippi State University. Both Wright and White were the centerpieces of the 2010 defense that put MSU football back on the map. Skinner came in during Mullen’s first recruiting class (2009) and wall an big part of the 2011-13 defenses, starting full time his final two years.
Speaking of KJ Wright, he just missed this list. As far as NFL careers go, he’s among the best as he plays a key role on one of the best defenses in pro football over the past few years. His career at State was also exceptional, especially his senior year when he notched 98 tackles, 9 pass break-ups, 4 sacks and a forced fumble. Amazingly, Chris White actually one-upped Wright that year with 110 tackles, 2 INT, 6 sacks, 3 pass break-ups and he won the Conerly Trophy.
Benardrick McKinney just left MSU after three stellar years manning the middle for Geoff Collins. He is projected to be a first round NFL Draft pick and potentially the first LB taken.
Now it’s time for list – just scroll through each page to see the top 5 linebackers in Mississippi State history.