Home / Sports / Michigan State Hosts Key Pass Rusher in Portal Frenzy
Michigan State Hosts Key Pass Rusher in Portal Frenzy
3 Jan
Summary
- Michigan State hosting Georgia Southern EDGE transfer M.J. Stroud.
- Stroud is a three-star prospect with one year of eligibility.
- He recorded 33 tackles and 6.5 sacks in 2025.
The 2026 college football transfer portal window has opened, initiating a flurry of activity as teams pursue over 3,000 players. Michigan State, under new head coach Pat Fitzgerald, is actively seeking new talent. A significant target is M.J. Stroud, a three-star EDGE transfer from Georgia Southern, who is scheduled for an official visit to East Lansing on January 9.
Stroud, originally a three-star recruit from Alcovy High School, spent four seasons with Georgia Southern. After redshirting in 2022, he showed consistent improvement, culminating in a breakout redshirt junior season in 2025. During that season, he recorded 33 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles, earning him one year of remaining eligibility.
Fitzgerald aims to bolster Michigan State's defense, particularly its pass rush, making Stroud an attractive prospect. Despite a slightly undersized frame at 6'3" and 230 pounds, his power and play strength are noted. Stroud is ranked as the No. 598 overall player and No. 53 EDGE in the transfer portal. Michigan State faces competition from West Virginia and Colorado for his commitment, but hosting him for his final visit places them in a strong position.
