Northern Illinois University Athletics

2012: Saw action in nine games as a true freshman, finishing the season with four tackles. Played primarily on NIU[apos]s special teams units. Made a season-high two stops against Kansas (9-22). Recorded his first career tackle against UT Martin (9-8). Also made a solo stop at Army (9-15).

High School: Earned first team all-state, St. Louis Post-Dispatch all-Metro and all-conference honors following his senior season at O[apos]Fallon Township High School. Posted 81 tackles and seven sacks in 2011, helping the Panthers to a share of the Southwestern Conference Championship. Led the OTHS defense that only gave up 15.7 points per game in 2011 en route to an appearance in the Class 7A quarterfinals. Took all-state and first team all-conference honors following his junior season. Posted 91 tackles and 10 sacks for the Panthers. Helped O[apos]Fallon to a conference championship in 2010.

Personal: Born Jan. 18, 1993. Son of Mike and Mary Cotton.