Getting To Know Incoming Freshman M.J. Salahuddin

Awhile back we had the chance to ask incoming freshman M.J. Salahuddin a few questions. Salahuddin, 6-3, 190, was a 3-star prospect according to Rivals and a 2-star prospect according to Scout.  NC State was the only school to offer Salhuddin, but he was receiving interest from Clemson, East Carolina, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Wake Forest.

Check out our conversation with T.J.:

What was it about NC State that led you to commit?

It was a home away from home.  They were going to put me in the best position for the next level.  If I didn’t play sports I would probably have gone there academically.

Where do you think that you will be lining up this season?

They told me I will probably will be playing outside linebacker.  Right now I’m just going in as a freshman ready to learn and to absorb everything they tell me and hopefully I will see playing time.

Who was your main recruiter from NC State?

Coach Bridge.  We have a crazy relationship.  He came to see me my junior year and followed me ever since.  I went to camp.  Coach Bridge just led me to the Pack.  He was humble.  He didn’t tell me what I wanted to hear like other recruiters.  He didn’t sugar coat anything.

What accomplishment are you most proud of from your high school career?

The main thing I was most proud of was the Shrine Bowl.  At first I was overlooked, then a week before hand they called me up.

Describe your style of play.

I’m a hard hitter, but I can cover.  I can play in space.  That’s why they moved me in high school because I filled the hole and made hits.

Was it a big factor for you to stay in North Carolina?

A lot of guys take their talent out of state, and I think we could be a great football state if the talent stayed in state.