Michigan State is rolling out the green carpet this Saturday as they host a slew of top recruits, setting their sights on building a powerhouse for the 2027 and 2028 classes. The buzz is palpable, and for good reason.
Leading the pack is Antijuan "Shaq" Wilkes from Detroit Cass Tech. Standing tall at 6-foot-6 and weighing 280 pounds, Wilkes is already making waves as the No. 5 overall recruit for 2028 and the top offensive tackle in his class.
Despite battling an early-season ankle injury, Wilkes anchored Cass Tech's offensive line all the way to the state finals. His potential?
Sky-high, according to Cass Tech head coach Marvin Rushing. "Shaq’s ability to move downfield on screens and draws is special," Rushing remarked.
"He's poised to be one of the most accomplished linemen from Cass."
Though Wilkes grew up cheering for Michigan State, he's got plenty of suitors, including LSU, Auburn, Michigan, and Ohio State. His visit to East Lansing is just the start of a busy tour.
Joining Wilkes from Cass Tech are several other promising talents. Running back Julian Taylor, a 5-foot-9, 215-pound dynamo, has already caught the eye of schools like Wisconsin and Louisville.
Defensive back Marquell Evans, known for his hybrid safety skills, boasts offers from three Mid-American Conference teams. Meanwhile, offensive lineman Josh Baker, a technically gifted center/guard, has drawn interest from Pitt and Kent State.
From Romeoville, Illinois, defensive lineman Ohimai Ozolua is another name to watch. At 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds, Ozolua is relatively new to the gridiron but has quickly become a hot commodity. Michigan State is keen to make a lasting impression, with an official visit lined up for May.
Ohio's Reed Gerken, a frequent visitor to East Lansing, has the Spartans in his top 10. Although no official visits are scheduled yet, Michigan State remains a strong contender.
Philadelphia's Zykee Scott, a linebacker with impressive sideline-to-sideline speed, is also making the trip. With offers ranging from Penn State to Oregon, Scott’s visit underscores Michigan State's pull. He's already penciled in an official visit for May 29.
Trey Hopkins, a safety from Pennsylvania's LaSalle, is visiting Michigan State for the first time since receiving a scholarship offer. With competition from schools like Penn State and UCLA, the Spartans are eager to make their case.
New Jersey's Bryan Porter, a standout wide receiver from Bergen Catholic, is another key visitor. With offers from powerhouses like Ohio State and Georgia, Porter’s relationship with Spartan receivers coach Courtney Hawkins could be pivotal.
The excitement doesn't end there. Harper Woods wide receiver DeAndre Bidden, a national top-100 recruit, is among the other standout prospects expected to attend. Michigan State is clearly making moves, and these visits could be the first step in building a formidable future lineup.