Just as Taveze Calhoun's college career had started it came to a sudden stop.

The talented freshman cornerback suffered a right shoulder injury during training camp last fall which kept him out for the entire 2011 season.

"It was hard when I got injured and found out I was going to be out for the whole season," Calhoun said. "You never want to sit out a whole season, especially your freshman year while you are trying to learn everything. I just try to look at the positive things about it and tried to learn everything from a mental standpoint since I couldn't get any reps. I still went to meetings and watched practice so I tried to take advantage of every little thing."

Calhoun finished up his rehab in time to participate in spring practice and worked his way on to the two-deep at Mississippi State this fall behind Darius Slay. He has played in all eight games for the Bulldogs this season recording 19 tackles as well as forcing and recovering a fumble.

"Early on I had a few learning experiences getting out there on the field and getting some playing time," Calhoun said. "I just try to do my role and help the team however I can. I try to learn from Johnthan (Banks), Darius and (Jamerson) Love. I'm just trying to learn everything I can so I can help the team."

The 6-foot-1, 180-pounder came to MSU as a two-way standout at Morton (Miss.) High School and was rated as a three-star wide receiver by Rivals.com. Calhoun was also a standout defensive back for the Panthers making 90 tackles and picking off six passes as a senior.



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