Purdue’s secondary just got another serious boost.
On Wednesday night, the Boilermakers landed former Michigan State safety Justin Denson Jr. out of the transfer portal - a promising addition to a defensive backfield that’s quickly becoming one of the more revamped units in the Big Ten. At 6-foot-2 and 194 pounds, Denson brings size, athleticism, and untapped potential to West Lafayette, with three years of eligibility still on the table.
Denson spent two seasons in East Lansing, appearing in 11 games and tallying 15 tackles during his time with the Spartans. This past season, he saw action in just three games, preserving his redshirt and keeping the door wide open for development and impact at his next stop. Before committing to Purdue, Denson also took visits to Michigan and Mississippi State - a sign that his services were in demand.
Coming out of high school, Denson was a coveted prospect in the 2024 recruiting class. Ranked as an 88 three-star, he picked Michigan State over heavyweights like Florida and Oklahoma. Now, he’s part of a Purdue program that’s been aggressive and intentional in reshaping its roster through the portal.
Denson is the fifth defensive back Purdue has added this offseason, joining safeties Jaden Mangham (Michigan) and Mister Clark (FIU), as well as cornerbacks Dee Newsome (Samford) and Don Saunders (Utah). That’s not just depth - that’s a full-scale overhaul of the back end of the defense.
It’s clear Purdue is prioritizing experience and versatility in the secondary, and Denson fits the mold. He’s a long, rangy safety who can cover ground and isn’t afraid to get physical in run support. With his frame and three years to grow in the system, he has the tools to become a key piece in the Boilermakers’ defensive puzzle.
Overall, Purdue has now brought in 24 transfer commitments this offseason - a clear signal that the staff is looking to compete right away. And with Denson’s addition, they’re not just adding bodies - they’re adding upside.