Coach Smith has only been on campus for a few months, but from day one, he had his eyes set on quarterback Leo Hannan. The staff recruited Leo while they were at Oregon State, and that continued as they made the move to MSU. Hannan committed this week, making him the first pledge of the 2025 class. 24/7 has great things to say about Hannan. In summary, he's got good size, a big arm, is a good athlete, and makes plays outside the pocket. All things Coach Smith looks for in a QB.
Getting a QB early is huge. It's the foundation of the class and a signal to other recruits interested in MSU that they have their guy. He's already said he's been in contact with other recruits, and this will hopefully give us a leg up in getting more offensive talent.
The staff is already identifying QB talent in the 2026 class as well and hosted Nathan Bernhard for a visit recently.
Moving to the defensive side of the ball. Two LBs are expected to make a decision soon, and MSU seems to be the favorite for both. As we covered in the LB recap, while we are set for this year, the position needs significant replenishment going into next season.
Charles "DJ" White is the #10 ranked player in Michigan, and #67 LB in the country. At 6-3, he provides good height to bulk up for the college level. White committed on 4/27, which you can read about here.
Di'Mari Malone is the #11 ranked player in Michigan, and #81 LB in the country. At 6'0 / 200 pounds, he's got ok size. I like MSU's chances here.
Other players to keep an eye on:
Desmond Straughton is another top-ranked player in Michigan. Highlights show him playing a lot out of the backfield on offense and in the secondary on defense. While only 5-11, he plays fast and physical.
Jayden Savoury has been ID as a priority TE in the 2025 class. At 6-6 220 he had the measurables you're looking for. I love what Allen had to say about him in his scouting report. I like MSU's chances here. Read more about the TE room here.
Jace Clarizio is a RB they are in contact with. This is made easier since he's from EL. In his two years starting he's racked up 2,000 yards and 25 TDs, with 12 receptions.
Elijah Dotson - Another RB on the radar, who plays at U of D. He could play S at the next level. Pitt might be the lean, according to 24/7 player profile. But if MSU wants to really push, I like their chances.
Quick RB note - I think they will be pretty selective about the high school RB they take in this class. They brought in two freshmen in the 2024 class and will likely bring in a vet back from the portal this offseason to backfill the departures of Mangham and Kay'Ron Lynch-Adams, and possibly Carter if he goes pro. Read more about the RB room here.
Bryson Williams (6-2 /220 ATH) - A teammate of White, Williams would be a great athlete to add to the class.
Antonio Johnson (6-4 / 285 OL) - Another teammate of White, Johnson would be a nice OL pickup. It should be noted the new staff and OL coach prioritize athleticism on the OL, looking for guys who can handle RPO responsibilities and get to the next level. They are not always looking for giant, immovable objects.
Antwon Thomas - the WR from Belleville is listed at 5-11 / 165. I don't think the staff minds the measurables, there hasn't been much talk of him being high on the MSU board. But having him in the backyard as a Plac C option isn't the worst thing.
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