Fitzgerald's Spartans reload aggressively via the transfer portal, landing key talent to immediately reshape their roster and accelerate a winning culture.
Michigan State wasted absolutely no time making noise in the transfer portal.
Pat Fitzgerald and his staff jumped out to an incredible start, landing four public commitments in one day, with several more reportedly in the works. The early returns are loud, intentional, and point toward a staff determined to change the trajectory in East Lansing immediately.
January 4 Commitments
The Spartans hauled in four transfers to kick off their portal run:
Punter – Rhys Dakin (Iowa) Dakin comes to Michigan State from Iowa, where he previously played under new MSU Special Teams Coordinator LeVar Woods. Familiarity and proven production make this a clean, reliable addition.
Defensive Back – Devin Vaught (Maine)
A big-bodied corner, Vaught posted 60 total tackles and three interceptions last season. He brings physicality and experience to a secondary clearly being prioritized.
Cornerback – Tyran Chappell (Houston Christian)
This was the commitment that really moved the needle. As a redshirt freshman, Chappell tallied four interceptions, flashing ball skills and upside that immediately caught attention.
One of the biggest wins so far. Murawski is the No. 4-ranked offensive tackle in the portal and graded as the third-best run-blocking tackle last season per PFF. A cornerstone addition for the offensive line.
Then the sun rose on a new day in Michigan. Fresh snow on the ground, the holiday haze lifting for most of the world.
But in East Lansing, there was no slowdown.
Pat Fitzgerald and his staff came back swinging even harder, continuing to stack wins in the portal as they work to establish an immediate winning culture.
January 5 Commitments
Caleb Wheatland – LB – Auburn
The day started early with Wheatland committing to MSU. Wheatland spent three seasons at Maryland (2022–24), appearing in 35 games and compiling 100 tackles, 14.5 TFLs, 7.5 sacks, three pass deflections, and a fumble recovery. He transferred to Auburn last season, but injuries cut his year short. When healthy, he brings proven Big Ten production.
Michael Richard – DB – Louisiana Tech
Just an hour later, Michigan State landed Richard. The 2023 C-USA Freshman of the Year finished last season with 39 tackles, five TFLs, three pass breakups, and three interceptions—the first of his career. He was also named All-CUSA Second Team in 2024.
Tre Bell – DB – Iowa State
The secondary got another boost with Bell’s commitment. He appeared in 12 games last season, posting 36 tackles, four TFLs, two interceptions, two pass breakups, and a forced fumble. The Spartans are clearly attacking the defensive backfield early and often.
If you’re looking for a recap of Day One of the portal, click here. For Days Two and Three, click here.
Recent and Upcoming Visitors
Beyond the commitments, Michigan State continues to host an impressive list of visitors.
Trent Fraley – OL – North Dakota State (January 5)
The Spartans hosted the son of Detroit Lions offensive line coach Hank Fraley—one of the best OL coaches in the game. Trent Fraley has allowed just one sack in 825 pass attempts, a stat that speaks volumes.
Andy Burburija – DT – Iowa Western (January 8)
Burburija initially committed to Kansas State on signing day but has since reopened his recruitment. Last season, he recorded 45 tackles, 11 sacks, and 18.5 TFLs. He’s ranked as the No. 47 JUCO prospect by 247Sports.
Michigan State also recently extended an offer to Ferris State OL Dayne Arnett. The Bulldogs have won three championships in four seasons, and plucking talent from that program could provide immediate help—just look at Ole Miss’ success with Ferris State’s former quarterback.
The portal never sleeps, and for the next week and a half, you can count on continued movement. Fitzgerald is rapidly building his roster with purpose, supported by a strong staff that players clearly believe in.
Stay tuned—this portal run is far from over.