GENERAL: First-year player... transferred to Pitt State from Hutchinson Community College... a talented athlete who enjoyed a solid spring camp... expected to be an impact player at outside linebacker for the Gorillas.

In Junior College: Spent one season at Hutchinson ('07)... recorded 88 tacklees with 4.5 QB sacks, 6.0 TFLs, 1 FR and 1 FF.

At FHSU: Spent two seasons at MIAA rival Fort Hays State University (2005-06)... recorded 53 tackles, 2.0 QB sacks, 4.0 TFLs, one interception and a fumble he returned 58 yards for a TD as a redshirt freshman in '06.

In High School: A first-team Kansas Class 5A All-State selection at defensive back at Salina South High School as a senior in 2004... recorded 91 tackles and one interception that year... also returned eight kickoffs for 314 yards (39.3 ypc)... helped the Cougars to the 5A state title in 2004... a 2005 Kansas Shrine Bowl participant.

Personal: Born May 21, 1987... son of James and Lisa Sykes... a construction management major.