The college football landscape is shifting rapidly, and Michigan State University (MSU) sits right in the middle of it. On December 31, 2022, thirteen MSU football players announced plans to enter the NCAA transfer portal.
This wave of departures follows MSU’s recent coaching shakeup. Pat Fitzgerald has stepped in to replace Jonathan Smith as head football coach.
The transfer portal, which works a lot like the NFL’s free agency, lets college athletes declare their intent to play elsewhere. That’s led to some pretty big roster changes for the Spartans.
Mass Exodus: 13 MSU Players Enter Transfer Portal
On the last day of December, Michigan State saw a huge shift as 13 football players decided to enter the transfer portal. New head coach Pat Fitzgerald now faces the tough job of filling a lot of holes in the lineup.
The players heading out include:
- Chrishon McCray – Wide Receiver
- Evan Boyd – Wide Receiver
- Kristian Phillips – Offensive Lineman
- Cole Dellinger – Offensive Lineman
- Justin Bell – Offensive Lineman
- Payton Stewart – Offensive Lineman
- Mercer Luniewski – Offensive Lineman
- Charlton Luniewski – Offensive Lineman
- Jalen Thompson – Defensive Lineman
- Aydan West – Cornerback
- David Santiago – Edge Rusher
- Ryland Jessee – Quarterback
- Wyatt Hook – Tight End
All told, MSU now has 32 players in the transfer portal. That list includes some big names like quarterback Aidan Chiles, wide receiver Nick Marsh, running back Makhi Frazier, and tight end Michael Masunas.
Implications for MSU’s Football Program
With so many players leaving, Pat Fitzgerald and his coaching staff have a lot on their plate. The transfer portal closes on January 16, but players in the national championship game get five extra days to decide.
That doesn’t leave MSU with much time to keep talent or bring in new faces to fill the roster.
Pat Fitzgerald’s New Role and Challenges
Pat Fitzgerald, hired on December 1, 2022, knows the pressure that comes with college football. After taking over from Jonathan Smith, Fitzgerald needs to steady the team and bring in new talent quickly.
His background and experience should help as he tries to guide MSU through this tough stretch.
Fitzgerald’s Coaching Background
Fitzgerald has built a reputation for his strategy and ability to motivate players. His previous coaching gigs have prepared him for the challenges at MSU.
He started by keeping Joe Rossi and James Adams on the defensive staff, and brought in new faces like Max Bullough and Joel Welsh.
New Additions to the Coaching Staff
Max Bullough, a former MSU All-Big Ten linebacker, will take on the role of co-defensive coordinator and linebackers coach. Bullough’s return to East Lansing feels like a real boost for the Spartans.
Fitzgerald praised Bullough, saying he represents Spartan toughness and will push players to give their all.
Max Bullough’s Impact
Bullough’s deep ties to MSU and his football smarts make him a valuable addition. He’s coached at top programs around the country and played in the NFL, which should help him make an immediate difference.
Looking Ahead: The Future of MSU Football
With the transfer portal open until January 16, Fitzgerald and his staff are working hard to find and recruit new talent. They need to fill the many gaps left by departing players and put together a competitive team for the next season.
Adding Bullough and Welsh to the coaching staff is a good start, but there’s a lot of work ahead.
Recruitment Strategy
MSU’s recruiting focus will likely be on players who can jump in and contribute right away. The coaching staff will have to lean on their contacts and scouting to find guys who fit and can fill those empty spots fast.
Conclusion
The mass exodus of 13 players from Michigan State University’s football program is a huge moment for the team. With the transfer portal window about to close, Pat Fitzgerald and his staff have to scramble to rebuild the roster.
Max Bullough and Joel Welsh just joined the coaching staff. Their arrival brings some hope, but let’s be honest—there are some big challenges ahead.
Recruitment and player development will matter more than ever right now. Can the team pull together a unit that actually competes at the top level? Only time will tell.
For more details on this story, check out Newsweek’s coverage of the MSU transfer portal situation.
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