The Illinois State linebacker was a prep track star at Marshall, Wis., winning conference titles in the 100- and 200-meter dashes and placing at the state meet in two relays.
"Yeah, that was like 40 to 50 pounds ago," DeForest said with a smile. "I was about 185 pounds. In high school, I couldn't gain weight to save my life."
DeForest, whose cousin Spencer DeForest is a defensive back and holds on kicks for the Redbirds, is a key component of a Redbird defense that ranks first in the MVFC in red zone defense, third in rushing defense and third in scoring defense.