Michigan State announced the hiring of Pat Fitzgerald as its new head coach, marking a decisive shift after the 2025 season.
Transfer portal reshapes the squad
The new staff has infused the roster with experienced transfers, including Carson Gulker and Charles Brantley, while the program projects a top‑30 recruiting class for 2027.
The offseason also saw notable departures, with Nick Marsh moving to Indiana and Alex VanSumeren heading to USC, leaving gaps that the coaching staff must address.
Nevertheless, the team retained key figures such as starting quarterback Alessio Milivojevic and star linebacker Jordan Hall, ensuring continuity at critical positions.
Analysts have generally praised the hire and the portal additions, yet ESPN’s latest Big Ten offseason rankings placed Michigan State at 18th, underscoring the competitive nature of the conference.
Within the Big Ten, traditional powerhouses like Northwestern, Rutgers, Maryland, and Purdue continue to shape the landscape, each navigating its own strategic moves.