Kenny Willekes is a stud defensive end for the Michigan State Spartans. Every single Saturday, whether the green and white wins or loses, Willekes makes his presence felt.

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Can you believe that he started his career as a walk-on? It’s hard to imagine now, but, he was a preferred walk-on at East Lansing.

On Monday, Willekes was announced for winning an award that looks specifically for players that begin their careers as a walk-on:

Each year, the Burlsworth Trophy is given to the most outstanding player in America that started as a walk-on. According to 247Sports, Willekes did not have a ranking as a prospect.

So much for that.