Calgary Dino makes quite an impression at recent CFL Combine (VIDEO)

After making the switch from playing in the secondary to now playing as a starting linebacker, the Calgary Dino’s Mike Edem was recently at the CFL combine, showcasing his abilities at both positions.

“I showed coaches that if they do have to move me to the secondary, that is a possibility,” Edem stated. “I have the athleticism to play in the secondary and the skills to play in the box.”

“That just puts you in a position to get employed.”

Edem started his football career in high school before playing in the CEGEP for a season. He then played for McGill University for a year before transferring to Calgary where he was moved to linebacker last year.

“[The coach] had three guys who could start and play at a high level at that position,” said Edem of the coach’s decision to move him to linebacker. “To get more guys on the field the coach had someone move to linebacker.”

“In the morning when I went to see him I looked at the board and my name was at linebacker. I was like alright, lets go with it.”

Extremely athletic and motivated, the change to the linebacker position has been fun for Edem and a welcome challenge.

“I love playing linebacker,” said Edem. “Everything happens quick; straight to the ball.”

“It’s more physical.”

Edem’s performance at the combine was extremely impressive and had those who saw him praising his talents in both the secondary and inside the box. Current CFL broadcaster and former CFL player Duane Forde said this of Edem’s showing at the combine.

“He’s probably as much in the mix as a defensive back as he is as a linebacker,” said Forde. “He’s bigger and just as athletic as any of the defensive backs that were at the combine.”

“I would say that for me, he is the best defensive back prospect.”

Edem was also happy with his combine results, but knows there is always room to grow.

“The experience was great, I got to play against some really good athletes,” he said. “You are never satisfied with your performance; there is always room to improve.”

When asked about his potential draft stock and where he might be drafted, Edem was humble, satisfied with just being a part of the process.

“Right now I’m in a position where beggars can’t be choosers,” he said. “I’m happy just to get my name called on draft day.”

“I’m just excited for the whole thing; to get a shot in the CFL and prove myself.”

With the combine now behind him, Edem is staying active and is motivated towards improving his strength and potential at the linebacker position.

“Currently I’m just training and trying to get bigger and stronger, I want to get bigger than I was at the combine,” he said.

Mike Edem:

Weight: 200

Height: 6.01