Nick Marsh’s Transfer Portal Entry Sends Ripples Through Michigan State - But Courtney Hawkins’ Return Might Change the Equation
Michigan State has seen its fair share of roster turnover this offseason, with a steady stream of players hitting the NCAA Transfer Portal. Most of the departures, while notable, haven’t caused much panic among fans or signaled a major shift in the program’s trajectory. But one name has struck a different chord - sophomore wide receiver Nick Marsh.
Marsh’s decision to enter the portal wasn’t exactly shocking given the circumstances, but it definitely stung. The former four-star recruit and rising talent had just wrapped up a season that showed flashes of his high ceiling, even if the numbers didn’t quite reflect it.
The reason? Michigan State’s offense struggled mightily through the heart of the season.
October was particularly rough. Under offensive coordinator Brian Lindgren, the Spartans’ attack lost rhythm and identity. The midseason quarterback change brought a spark - especially with freshman Alessio Milivojevic showing real promise down the stretch - but the play-calling remained inconsistent, and the offense never fully found its footing.
Marsh, despite the chaos around him, managed to stand out as one of the few consistent playmakers. Still, once head coach Jonathan Smith was dismissed following the Maryland win, Marsh announced he would enter the portal when the window opened in January.
It was a move that felt inevitable, even if disappointing. Marsh had re-committed to Smith after his initial hire, and the two appeared to have built a strong rapport.
But with Smith gone, Marsh seemed ready to seek a fresh start.
That’s where things get interesting - and where Pat Fitzgerald may have a card to play.
Courtney Hawkins Could Be the Key
On Sunday evening, Michigan State made a move that could shift the narrative: wide receivers coach Courtney Hawkins is being retained by Fitzgerald as part of his new staff. And that’s not just a footnote - it could be a pivotal development when it comes to Marsh’s future.
Hawkins is more than just a position coach. He’s the guy who recruited Marsh, developed him, and worked with him every day.
Players rave about him, and Marsh is no exception. Under Hawkins' guidance, Marsh emerged as a breakout freshman in 2024, even in a sputtering offense.
Their relationship runs deep - and it might be enough to give Michigan State a second chance at keeping one of its most promising young stars.
Now, let’s be clear: this doesn’t guarantee Marsh is coming back. Far from it.
There are still major hurdles in play - namely, a competitive NIL offer and a convincing offensive vision that shows Marsh his talents won’t go to waste. But Hawkins’ return opens a door that previously looked closed.
Before this move, Marsh’s return felt like a long shot - maybe a 10 percent chance. But now?
There’s at least a conversation to be had. Hawkins gives Fitzgerald a bridge to Marsh, a shared connection built on trust and development.
That alone makes things more interesting than they were just a few days ago.
What Comes Next?
The ball is still in Marsh’s court. He’s in the portal, and plenty of programs will be lining up for a player with his size, skill set, and upside.
Michigan State will have to act quickly and decisively if they want to keep him in East Lansing. That means aligning NIL resources, presenting a clear offensive identity, and showing Marsh that he’s still a cornerstone of the program’s future.
Fitzgerald and Hawkins are likely already working behind the scenes to make that case. Whether it’s enough remains to be seen.
But what was once a near-certain exit now has a sliver of possibility. And in the world of college football - especially in the transfer portal era - that’s all it takes to keep hope alive.
For now, we wait. But Michigan State just gave itself a fighting chance to hold onto a player who could be a game-changer in 2025 and beyond.