Draft stock rising for Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins

Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins has been drawing rave reviews all week in preparation for Saturday’s Senior Bowl. Here’s what The Sporting News had to say about Cousins in a story about the players that most helped increase their draft status with their play throughout the week:

“Kirk Cousins, QB, Michigan State, 6-2, 209, 4.85; projected second-round pick. After a senior season in which he flashed elite play but made too many mistakes, Cousins stepped up this week and drastically improved his draft stock. While he no doubt looks very thin at 209 pounds, he displayed very good arm strength to make every NFL throw with excellent zip. He got rid of the ball quickly and decisively and was able to fit passes between defenders into tight spots. Many had serious questions about him before this week, but he answered them in a big way and has begun what SN, along with many NFL scouts, believe will be a fast rise up draft boards, similar to what Andy Dalton did a season ago. ”

Tight end Brian Linthicum and safety Trenton Robinson are playing in the game as well and Linthicum has also stood out, according to several reports. After the play of B.J. Cunningham in last weekend’s East-West Shrine Game, the NFL Draft could be shaping into quite a day for the Spartans. In addition to Cousins, Linthicum, Robinson and Cunningham, I wouldn’t be shocked to see another handful of Spartans get selected, or at least become unsigned free agents. Keep an eye later in the draft for RB Edwin Baker (he will be at the NFL Draft Combine), WR Keshawn Martin, WR Keith Nichol and G Joel Foreman.

Of course, expect defensive tackle Jerel Worthy to be the first Spartan to hear his name called.