Stampeding Through The Roster: #35 LB Mike Jeune

We'll meet USF's starting weak-side linebacker in a little bit, but first let's get to know his backup.

#35 LB Mike Jeune
Senior, 6'0" 224 lbs.

Stats in 2011: As a reserve, had 23 tackles, four TFLs, and two sacks. He recovered a fumble on Pitt's opening drive, and then recovered his own later in the game after a scary kickoff return.

Current Spot on Depth Chart: Mike is listed as the backup weakside linebacker behind DeDe Lattimore on the post-spring depth chart.

How Did He Come To USF? Jeune played at Independence CC in Kansas, where he earned honorable mention NJCAA All-American honors in 2010 after recording 98 tackles, three TFL, a sack, three forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries. (And if USF ever has some kind of punter catastrophe, Jeune was Independence's punter during his freshman year.) Wanting to reunite with high school teammate Sam Barrington, Jeune chose USF over Ole Miss, Mississippi State, and Kansas State.

Recruiting Rankings: Rivals did not rate Jeune. Scout gave Mike two stars.

Projected Playing Time for 2012: Not only should Mike get playing time when Lattimore is taking a break or when the game is out of hand, but he may also get to back up at other linebacker spots as well. He'll also continue playing on special teams. So you'll see quite a bit of Jeune.