The fall camp at Michigan State kicks off next Thursday, marking the first full‑scale workout under head coach Pat Fitzgerald. The session will introduce a dramatically altered roster, with 62 new faces joining the 111‑player squad.
Of those newcomers, 32 have arrived via the transfer portal and 30 are freshmen, creating a blend of experience and youthful energy that could reshape the team's dynamics on both sides of the ball.
Breakout Candidates
Among the newcomers, wide receiver Charles Taplin stands out despite a modest 2025 production of one catch for eight yards. Coaches see untapped potential in his route‑running and are positioning him for a starting role.
Tight end Jayden Savoury, a 6‑5, 253‑pound prospect, is competing for an every‑down spot. His size and ability to stretch the field make him a natural vertical threat and a reliable blocker in the run game.
Defensive tackle Derrick Simmons, a former four‑star recruit who redshirted last year, is expected to anchor the interior line. With depth at the position limited, his impact could be pivotal for the front seven.
Transfer cornerback Tyran Chappell arrives from Houston Christian, where he logged four interceptions and earned First‑Team All‑Southland honors. He is already slated as the third‑string cornerback behind Tre Bell and Charles Brantley.
Rodney Bullard Jr.’s eligibility for the 2026 season remains pending NCAA review, but his 2025 performance — five catches for 119 yards and a touchdown — hints at a playmaker’s skill set that could add a new dimension to the passing attack.
The competition at tight end also involves Brennan Parachek and Carson Gulker, both of whom are vying for meaningful snaps. Their efforts will be closely watched as the staff evaluates how best to utilize the unit's size and versatility.
Overall, the Spartans' coaching staff is optimistic that the infusion of talent, combined with a thin defensive tackle pool, will provide the depth needed to compete in the Big Ten. The upcoming weeks will reveal how quickly these newcomers can translate potential into production.