Michigan State is keeping talent close to home - and adding a player with a championship pedigree in the process.
Luca Genrich, a defensive back out of Detroit Catholic Central, has committed to the Spartans as a preferred walk-on in the 2026 class. It’s a move that speaks to both Genrich’s potential and Michigan State’s continued focus on building a strong foundation with in-state talent.
Genrich isn’t just another name on the roster. He played a key role in helping the Shamrocks capture a State Championship this past season, showcasing the kind of playmaking instincts and physicality that translate well to the college level. At 6 feet tall and 180 pounds, he’s got the frame and versatility you like to see in a defensive back, especially one who’s proven he can contribute in multiple phases of the game.
His stat line from this past season tells the story of a well-rounded defender: 46 tackles, including two for loss, along with one sack, one interception, and a fumble recovery. Those numbers reflect a player who isn’t just hanging back in coverage - Genrich gets involved in run support, knows how to time a blitz, and has a nose for the football.
The commitment came shortly after a visit to East Lansing, where Genrich reportedly made the decision to join the program. For Michigan State, adding a player like Genrich as a preferred walk-on is a smart bet. He’s a high-character guy with a championship mindset, and while he may not be entering the program on scholarship, he’s the type of player who can earn one down the line.
Preferred walk-ons often fly under the radar, but they can become difference-makers - especially when they come from winning programs and bring that edge into the locker room. Genrich fits that mold. He’s already shown he can compete at a high level, and now he’ll get the chance to prove himself in green and white.
For the Spartans, it’s another step in building a 2026 class that blends potential with proven production. And for Genrich, it’s the next chapter in a football journey that’s just getting started.