A New Era of Leadership
Michigan State football has named six captains for the 2025 campaign, a move that underscores the program’s new emphasis on collective leadership. Rather than relying on a single figurehead, the coaching staff has distributed the honor among a punter, a quarterback, a linebacker and other specialists, reflecting a belief that responsibility is shared across the roster.
Among the captains is Rhys Dakin, whose journey from Melbourne, Australia, to East Lansing has made him the third punter in school history to earn the honor, joining the likes of Aaron Bates and Bryce Baringer. Dakin’s selection signals a departure from the traditional quarterback‑centric model that has long defined Michigan State’s leadership.
Alessio Milivojevic, a quarterback taking over from previous captain Aidan Chiles, brings a focus on consistency to the role. He has spoken about the importance of daily performance, noting that the team’s leaders are expected to model the same level of effort and execution that they demand from their teammates.
Jordan Hall, a linebacker, makes history as the first player to serve consecutive terms as captain since Joe Bachie in 2018‑19. His nomination for the AFCA Good Works Team further highlights his commitment to community service and accountability both on and off the field.
Trent Fraley, the sole in‑state representative from the Pittsburgh area, joins the group alongside Kenny Soares Jr., who has emphasized that the six captains represent just a fraction of the more than one hundred leaders within the squad. Their messages point to a culture where every player is expected to step up.
Season Opener and Broadcast
Coach Pat Fitzgerald’s debut season gets underway with a September 4 opener against Toledo at Spartan Stadium, a game that will be televised on FS1. The matchup offers the new leadership group a chance to translate their unified vision into results as the Spartans aim to break a recent streak of losing seasons and return to bowl contention.