The conversation around Michigan State’s defense for the 2026 campaign has quickly centered on one unit: the linebackers.
Star Power and Depth Define the 2026 Linebacking Corps
Jordan Hall emerged as the most productive defender a year ago, topping the team with 88 tackles, three forced fumbles and 2.5 sacks despite playing through injuries.
Coach Max Bullough, who returned from a stint at Notre Dame to serve as co‑defensive coordinator, commands the highest salary among position coaches at $750,000, underscoring the program’s investment in the unit.
Transfer Caleb Wheatland from Auburn brings a proven track record, having posted 41 tackles and 3.5 sacks in 2023 and following that with a team‑high 4.0 sacks and 42 stops in 2024, positioning him as a starter on the edge.
Dion Crawford, a Buffalo transfer, will line up as an outside/WILL linebacker and backup to Hall, having earned Third Team All‑MAC honors in 2024 after recording 15 tackles for loss and a team‑leading 8.5 sacks.
Hybrid player Cam Stodghill, previously at Albany, is transitioning to a full‑time linebacker role, leveraging his experience on passing‑down situations to contribute immediately.
Third‑year linebacker Brady Pretzlaff was slated for a significant role before a season‑ending injury in Week 3 of the 2025 schedule halted his momentum.
Freshmen DeJae White and DiMari Malone, though yet to see game action, earned Scout Team Player of the Week accolades, with White rated as a 4‑star recruit and Malone as a consensus 3‑star prospect, hinting at future depth.
The 2023 recruiting class now retains only two scholarship players — Hall and tight end Brennan Parachek — while the broader roster reflects a blend of veteran experience and untapped potential.
Across the group, the linebackers are expected to be a key component of the pass rush, with Hall, Wheatland and Crawford all possessing histories of pressuring quarterbacks.