For the third row in a year, at least, the linebackers' room should be the strength of the Michigan State defense, and perhaps even the entire team. Sure, there is some turnover from last year, as is going to be the case in the new NIL/transfer portal era of college athletics, especially with a new coach coming to town. That said, unlike the defensive line, the Spartans have some of the biggest names from last year’s squad returning to the second line of defense.
Returning Players: Cal Haladay, Jordan Hall, Darius Snow, Aaron Alexander, Sam Edwards, David Millikin, Jay Coyne
Departed Players: Jacoby Windmon, Aaron Brule, Ma’a Gaoteote, Quavian Carter, James Burbar
Transfers In: Wayne Matthews, Jordan Turner, Tyler Gillison, Marcellius Pulliam, Semaj Bridgeman
Recruits In: Brady Pretzlaff
To summarize, the Spartans are returning 7 players to the LB room, are bringing in 5 transfers and 1 recruit, and saying goodbye to 5 guys either to the portal, the NFL, or just to no more eligibility.