The transfer portal has been relatively kind to Michigan State this offseason-at least in terms of surprises. But that doesn’t mean it’s been painless.
A few key departures were expected, yet they still sting. Among the most notable: wide receiver Nick Marsh, quarterback Aidan Chiles, and running back Makhi Frazier.
All three were major contributors and, more importantly, players with a high ceiling. Now, they’re on the move.
Let’s start with Marsh. The freshman wideout was one of the more promising pieces in Michigan State’s offense, and his decision to hit the portal wasn’t exactly shocking-but it’s still a blow.
He’s going to have plenty of suitors. Programs like Indiana and Notre Dame have already been floated as potential landing spots, and you can expect more to enter the conversation soon.
Marsh has the physical tools and upside to be a difference-maker wherever he ends up.
Then there’s Aidan Chiles. The former Spartans quarterback is drawing serious attention, and for good reason.
According to On3, he’s ranked as the No. 8 quarterback in the transfer portal, and he’s one of three former Michigan State signal-callers to crack their top 10. That tells you two things: Michigan State had some serious talent in the QB room, and Chiles is a name to watch.
There’s already buzz linking Chiles to a Big Ten destination, and Nebraska is the school that keeps coming up. While nothing’s official, the speculation makes sense-especially given how vocal Nebraska fans have been on social media.
Some are skeptical, even drawing comparisons between Chiles and Jeff Sims, who struggled in Lincoln. Others are more optimistic, pointing to Chiles’ dual-threat ability and untapped potential.
And that’s really the key with Chiles: potential. He didn’t quite break out in East Lansing, but there were flashes-moments where you could see the arm talent, the mobility, the poise.
It’s fair to say he didn’t get the developmental support he needed at Michigan State. The coaching instability didn’t help, and it often felt like the staff wasn’t fully committed to letting him grow into the role.
That’s where Nebraska-and Matt Rhule-come in. With Dylan Raiola entering the portal, the Huskers suddenly have a major need at quarterback.
Rhule’s system thrives with a mobile, playmaking QB, and Chiles fits that mold. He’s not a finished product, but he’s got the tools.
And under a coach like Rhule, who’s known for maximizing talent, the fit makes sense.
Rhule doesn’t need a long-term project-he needs someone who can step in, compete, and elevate the offense right away. Chiles could be that guy.
He brings a combination of athleticism and upside that Nebraska fans have been craving for years. If Rhule can unlock that next level, Chiles could thrive in Lincoln.
So while Michigan State hasn’t been gutted by the portal, the loss of players like Marsh, Frazier, and especially Chiles is significant. These aren’t just names-they’re players with real potential to shine elsewhere. The Spartans will have to regroup, while programs like Nebraska may be getting ready to capitalize.