Michigan State University Athletics
Askew Skips Senior Season; Enters 2004 NFL Draft
1/12/2004 12:00:00 AM | Football
Jan. 12, 2004
EAST LANSING, Mich. - Michigan State defensive tackle Matthias Askew has decided to forgo his senior season by declaring himself eligible for the 2004 National Football League Draft, Spartan head coach John L. Smith confirmed Monday, Jan. 12. The NFL's deadline for underclassmen to file paperwork for the draft is Thursday, Jan. 15.
The 6-foot-6, 299-pound Askew appeared in all 13 games in 2003, starting the last 11 games in a row. He led the defensive line in tackles, recording a career-best 69 stops (52 solos, 17 assists). Askew finished third on the team in tackles for losses (11 for 55 yards) and sacks (6 for 41 yards), with both totals representing career highs. He also forced two fumbles (one each vs. Louisiana Tech and Western Michigan).
Askew, a native of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., produced seven tackles, including two for losses (3 yards), in his final collegiate game vs. Nebraska in the MasterCard Alamo Bowl. He registered eight stops each vs. Ohio State and Notre Dame, matching his career high (vs. Purdue, 2001). Askew posted six tackles each vs. Michigan, Minnesota and Indiana. In the 2003 season opener, he sacked Western Michigan's Chad Munson four times for 28 yards, falling just one short of the Spartan single-game record (by Travis Davis, 5 for 37 yards vs. Ohio State, 1987).
"I wish Matthias Askew only the best as he pursues his dream to play in the National Football League," Coach Smith said. "The pro scouts like his big body and the way he uses his hands. I hope that he can make himself into a first-round pick.
"I certainly believe Matthias would have benefited from another year in college. As a coach, I know he could have accomplished more both on the field and in the classroom. I hope that some day Matthias returns to campus to finish his degree."
"Matthias Askew is a big guy that can run," Michigan State defensive line coach Steve Stripling said. "He made great strides as a pass rusher last season. The best thing about Matthias is that he's a big body that can defend the middle and take on double-team blocks plus, he has the ability to pressure the quarterback.
"There's no question Matthias would have benefited from another year in college. He grew up a lot during the course of the 2003 season, but he could have used another year to mature. Plus, Matthias could have improved his strength even more."
In three seasons, Askew saw action in 35 games, including 19 starting assignments. He finished his career with 144 tackles (99 solos, 45 assists), including 18 tackles for losses (72 yards) and seven sacks (45 yards).
The 2004 NFL Draft will be conducted April 24-25 in New York City.
