As the NCAA Transfer Portal window approaches, there's a buzz building in East Lansing - and it’s not just about new beginnings. It’s about opportunity. Michigan State is entering a pivotal offseason under newly hired head coach Pat Fitzgerald, and the early signs point to a program that’s wasting no time trying to turn the page.
Fitzgerald inherits a roster that, during the Jonathan Smith era, simply didn’t have the firepower to compete with the Big Ten’s heavy hitters. Whether it was Oregon, Ohio State, or Michigan, the Spartans often looked outmatched on the field. Fitzgerald’s challenge is clear: raise the talent level, fast.
And he's already laying the foundation. The coaching staff he’s building is quietly taking shape, and on Monday night, he may have landed a key piece with the reported hire of Wisconsin running backs coach Devon Spalding.
Spalding brings with him a strong résumé. He spent three seasons at Wisconsin under Luke Fickell and was also part of Fickell’s staff at Cincinnati - the same Cincinnati squad that made a run to the College Football Playoff. Along the way, he’s helped develop some impressive talent in the backfield, including Braelon Allen and Jaleel McLaughlin.
But there’s one name in particular that could make an immediate impact at Michigan State - and that’s freshman running back Dilin Jones, who just entered the transfer portal.
A Familiar Face, a Potential Fit
Jones isn’t just any freshman. He was one of Wisconsin’s top-rated recruits in the 2024 class and one of the most highly touted four-star backs ever to commit to the Badgers. And yes - Spalding played a key role in bringing him to Madison.
As a true freshman, Jones didn’t see much volume - just 88 rushing yards - but he made the most of his limited touches, averaging 5.5 yards per carry. He retained his redshirt and headed into 2025 as Wisconsin’s starting back.
The offense around him struggled, but Jones still managed 300 yards and two touchdowns on the year, averaging 3.9 yards per carry. Not eye-popping numbers, but the flashes were there.
He had a 63-yard, one-touchdown performance against Michigan and followed it up with 69 yards against Iowa - two games that showed his ability to contribute against top-tier defenses.
Now, with his name in the portal, he becomes one of the more intriguing running back options available - especially for a program like Michigan State that’s looking for a spark.
Why Michigan State Makes Sense
The Spartans return Brandon Tullis and Jace Clarizio in the backfield, but they’ve lost Makhi Frazier to the portal. That leaves a clear opportunity for a true RB1 to step in and take over. Jones, with his blend of speed, vision, and familiarity with Spalding’s coaching style, could be that guy.
And let’s not overlook the fit. If Jones wants to stay in the Big Ten, get meaningful touches, and play for a coach who already believes in his potential, Michigan State checks every box.
The Spartans need a dynamic back to help balance the offense - someone who can take pressure off the quarterback and keep defenses honest. Jones has the skill set to do just that.
What Comes Next
This is where Spalding’s impact could be felt immediately. If he can bring Jones with him to East Lansing, it would be a major early win for Fitzgerald’s staff and a signal that Michigan State is serious about retooling its roster with proven, high-upside talent.
The portal is full of possibilities, but few are more compelling than a running back-coach reunion that could fast-track the rebuild in East Lansing.
For now, it’s wait and see. But if Spalding works his magic, Michigan State’s backfield might look a whole lot different - and a whole lot more dangerous - when the 2026 season kicks off.