The next chapter of the Wesley Calcote story will be written in Decatur as the senior Brookhaven High linebacker inked his letter-of-intent on Wednesday with the East Central Community College Warriors.

Calcote had been committed at one time to Pearl River Community College, but when he visited ECCC he felt like he had found the place he wanted to spend the next two years.

“It just felt like home,” said Calcote. “The coaches really connected with me as a person and got to know me outside of football. I felt comfortable there.”

Calcote was a tackling machine in 2018 as he made 137 tackles for the 7-6 Panthers. He accounted for six tackles for a loss, three sacks, six broken up passes, grabbed two interceptions, and caused a fumble. He was selected as a MAC 5A All-State pick and The Daily Leader All-Area Most Valuable Defensive Player.

His nose for the football comes naturally as Calcote follows in the footsteps of two of his older brothers, Kalen and Chris. Kalen Calcote signed with Alcorn State out of high school and Chris signed with Southwest Mississippi Community College before transferring to the University of Arkansas-Monticello to finish his career.

At ECCC Calcote will be tutored by defensive line coach Mickey Mays. Mays is also in charge of the linebacker group.

“They like that I can drop back in coverage and cover sideline to sideline,” said Calcote. “I just want to contribute any way I can as a freshman. Defense, special teams, or wherever my team needs me.”

Having his teammate John Hilbert join him in Decatur also factored in Calcote choosing East Central.

“John’s like a brother to me,” said Calcote. “We’ll room together. He’s a great teammate and a hard worker.”

The signing ceremony on Wednesday was the culmination of Calcote’s road back from a knee injury that cost him nearly his entire junior season. Long term he plans on majoring in business administration or possibly focusing on marketing. He’s seen the example provided by his brothers on how football can provide a free education.

“The goal is to get better as a player and a person when I’m done at EC,” said Calcote. “I think the coaches there will help me reach that.”

Calcote will enroll in classes during summer school. Right now, he’s working part-time at Dollar General after school while lifting and running in preparation for his next move.

“I’ll be ready to get to work when I get there,” said Calcote. “I’m excited for what’s next.”