What's Happening?
As the 2025 college football season concludes, Michigan State University, under the leadership of new head coach Pat Fitzgerald, is preparing to actively engage in the upcoming January transfer portal
window. The Spartans are focusing on strengthening their defense, particularly by enhancing their pass rush capabilities. The team struggled with pass rushing during the 2025 season, recording only 22 sacks, with no individual player achieving more than 2.5 sacks. To address this, Michigan State is considering targeting elite EDGE players from the transfer portal. Two potential candidates include Joshua Burnham from Notre Dame and Tyler Thompson from the University of North Carolina. Burnham, originally from Traverse City, Michigan, has one year of eligibility left and is ranked as the No. 11 EDGE in the portal. Thompson, with two years of eligibility remaining, is ranked as the No. 18 EDGE and could provide an immediate boost to the Spartans' defense.
Why It's Important?
The decision to target EDGE players in the transfer portal is crucial for Michigan State as it seeks to improve its defensive performance. A strong pass rush is essential for any successful defense, and the Spartans' lack of it was a significant weakness in the 2025 season. By potentially acquiring players like Burnham and Thompson, Michigan State aims to bolster its defensive line, which could lead to better overall team performance and competitiveness in future seasons. This move also reflects the broader trend in college football where teams increasingly rely on the transfer portal to quickly address roster gaps and enhance team capabilities. Success in this endeavor could set a precedent for other teams and influence recruiting strategies across the sport.
What's Next?
If Michigan State successfully recruits EDGE players from the transfer portal, the next steps would involve integrating these players into the team and developing their skills to fit the Spartans' defensive strategies. Coach Fitzgerald, known for his emphasis on a physical defensive front, will likely focus on training and conditioning to maximize the new recruits' impact. The team's performance in the upcoming season will be closely watched to assess the effectiveness of these transfers. Additionally, the success of this strategy could influence future recruiting and transfer decisions, not only for Michigan State but also for other programs observing the outcomes.
