Jonathan Smith: Michigan State Football

Key Returnees for the 2025 Season

The Michigan State Spartans ended their 2024 season on a disappointing note with a loss to Rutgers, falling short of bowl eligibility in Jonathan Smith’s debut season as head coach.

Despite the setback, the Spartans showed glimpses of promise, particularly with quarterback Aidan Chiles’ performance and the team’s resilience in the face of injuries in the secondary.

Looking ahead to 2025, Michigan State will undergo a significant transformation, welcoming 16 transfers and 18 freshmen to its roster.

However, the team will also benefit from key returnees who will provide experience and leadership. Below is an in-depth look at the Spartans who will be returning to East Lansing for another season.

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— Jonathan Smith (@Coach_Smith) February 19, 2025

The Future of Michigan State’s Offense

One of the biggest bright spots of the 2024 season was quarterback Aidan Chiles. A former four-star recruit, Chiles transferred to Michigan State from Oregon State and quickly became the team’s offensive centerpiece.

His mobility, strong arm, and decision-making helped him stand out despite a lack of stability along the offensive line.

With another offseason to develop under head coach Jonathan Smith, Chiles has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in the Big Ten. His chemistry with returning receivers and the offensive line’s improvements will be crucial in 2025.

Jonathan Smith: The Workhorse Running Back

Running back Nate Carter was one of Michigan State’s most reliable playmakers in 2024.

The former UConn transfer showcased his physical running style, proving to be an effective option in both short-yardage and open-field situations.

As Michigan State looks to revamp its offensive scheme, Carter’s experience and leadership in the backfield will be instrumental. If the offensive line takes a step forward, he could see even better production in 2025.

A Playmaker at Wide Receiver

Wide receiver Jaron Glover emerged as a key target for Aidan Chiles in 2024, leading the Spartans in several receiving categories.

His ability to stretch the field and make contested catches provided Michigan State with a much-needed deep threat.

Heading into the 2025 season, Glover will play a vital role in helping Chiles develop as a passer. With more weapons expected to join the offense through transfers and recruiting, Glover’s presence will provide stability in the passing game.

The Anchor on the Offensive Line

Michigan State struggled with offensive line consistency in 2024, but Geno VanDeMark remained a steady presence.

The veteran lineman’s ability to play multiple positions on the interior helped the Spartans mitigate some of their depth issues.

In 2025, VanDeMark will be one of the most experienced linemen on the team. His leadership will be crucial in helping Michigan State establish a stronger running game and better pass protection for Aidan Chiles.

The Leader in the Secondary

The Spartans’ defense suffered a series of injuries in 2024, particularly in the secondary. However, Malik Spencer was a bright spot, stepping up as a leader and playmaker at safety.

Spencer’s ability to read offenses, deliver big hits, and defend against the pass makes him one of Michigan State’s most valuable returning players. His experience will be crucial as the Spartans look to improve their pass defense in 2025.

Jordan Hall was one of Michigan State’s most consistent defensive players in 2024. The linebacker’s ability to read plays, stop the run, and contribute in pass coverage made him an essential part of the defense.

With several new faces joining the defensive unit in 2025, Hall’s leadership will be critical in ensuring a smooth transition. His presence in the middle of the field will help the Spartans maintain a strong defensive identity.

Jonathan Smith: Defensive Force in the Trenches

Defensive lineman Derrick Harmon played a key role in Michigan State’s ability to generate pressure and stop the run in 2024.

His size, strength, and technique allowed him to control the line of scrimmage against some of the top offensive lines in the Big Ten.

As the Spartans prepare for another physical season in 2025, Harmon’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses will be crucial. If he continues to develop, he could be one of the most dominant defensive linemen in the conference.

Tyrell Henry provided a spark for Michigan State’s special teams unit in 2024, delivering big plays as a returner and contributing as a receiver. His speed and agility made him a valuable asset in field position battles.

In 2025, Henry will be expected to play an even bigger role on offense while maintaining his impact on special teams. His ability to change games with explosive plays will be a major factor in the Spartans’ success.

A Cornerback Ready to Shine

Dillon Tatum showed flashes of brilliance at cornerback in 2024, demonstrating his ability to match up against top receivers. While injuries forced Michigan State to shuffle its secondary throughout the season, Tatum remained a dependable option.

With more experience and a healthy defensive backfield in 2025, Tatum could emerge as one of the top cornerbacks in the Big Ten. His development will be key in helping the Spartans improve their pass defense.

With a mix of returning talent and new additions, Michigan State will look to take a big step forward in 2025. The Spartans have the pieces in place to be more competitive, but several factors will determine their success:

• Offensive Line Improvement: Protecting Aidan Chiles and creating running lanes for Nate Carter will be crucial.
• Defensive Consistency: The return of key defenders like Jordan Hall and Malik Spencer should help, but depth will be tested.
• Coaching Adjustments: Jonathan Smith and his staff must adapt to a changing roster and ensure player development remains a priority.

If Michigan State can address these key areas, the Spartans could be in position to compete for a bowl game and build momentum for the future.

Jonathan Smith: Top Five Players Returning to the Michigan State Spartans 

The Michigan State Spartans are preparing for an important 2025 season as they look to improve and make a statement in the Big Ten.

A key factor in their success will be the players returning to the roster, many of whom have shown flashes of brilliance in previous seasons.

Here, we break down the top five players returning to Michigan State in 2025 and their potential impact on the team.

One of the biggest questions surrounding Chance Rucker in 2025 is where he will fit best in the Spartans’ secondary.

The talented defensive back has the skills to play as an outside corner but could also thrive as a nickelback, covering slot receivers and making plays in the middle of the field.

A Look at Rucker’s 2023 Performance

Rucker had a promising 2023 season despite an injury that cut his year short. In limited action, he recorded 23 tackles, one interception, and four passes defended. These numbers indicate his ability to be an impact player when healthy.

If Rucker can stay on the field, he will likely be a major contributor for the Michigan State defense. His combination of speed, physicality, and ball skills make him a valuable asset.

The 2025 season could be his breakout year if he finds a consistent role in the defensive scheme.

Jordan Hall entered the 2024 season with high expectations, especially after an impressive freshman year in 2023, where he had 64 tackles and 4.5 sacks.

However, his sophomore campaign was disappointing due to injuries and inconsistent play, as he finished with just 23 tackles.

Despite his struggles, Hall remains one of Michigan State’s most physically gifted defensive players. At 6-foot-3 and 236 pounds, he has the size and athleticism to dominate at linebacker.

The Spartans’ defense needs playmakers, and Hall has the potential to be just that if he can stay healthy and return to form.

Jonathan Smith: Bounce-Back Year on the Horizon?

The upcoming season will be crucial for Hall’s development. If he can regain his 2023 form and build upon it, he could emerge as the leader of the Spartans’ defense.

A strong 2025 season could also put him on the radar for NFL scouts.

Jack Velling transferred to Michigan State after two solid years at Oregon State, where he developed into a reliable pass-catching tight end.

In his first season with the Spartans, he quickly became one of the team’s most dependable targets.

A Solid First Year in East Lansing

Velling finished the 2024 season with 36 receptions for 411 yards and one touchdown, ranking third on the team in receptions and receiving yards.

While those numbers are respectable, there is a belief that he has the potential to be even more productive in the red zone.

At 6-foot-5 and 244 pounds, Velling has the size and athletic ability to be a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses near the goal line.

The Spartans need to utilize him more effectively in scoring situations, and if they do, he could see a major boost in touchdown production.

Few players in Michigan State history have had as impressive of a freshman season as Nick Marsh. The dynamic wide receiver burst onto the scene in 2024, finishing with 41 receptions for 649 yards and three touchdowns.

Marsh’s Role as the Top Playmaker

• Marsh led the team in receiving yards and quickly became the go-to target for the Spartans’ quarterbacks.
• His ability to stretch the field and make plays after the catch made him an invaluable asset to the offense.
• With Omari Kelly joining the team through the transfer portal, defenses will no longer be able to focus all their attention on Marsh.
• This could lead to even more opportunities for him to make big plays and improve upon his already impressive numbers.
• Marsh has all the tools to become one of the best wide receivers in the Big Ten.
• If he can continue to develop his route-running and chemistry with the quarterback, he could be in for a monster sophomore season.
• The quarterback position is always the most scrutinized, and Aidan Chiles had a rollercoaster of a 2024 season.
• While some fans were calling for him to be benched at certain points, Chiles showed resilience and finished the year on a high note.

Breaking Down Chiles’ Numbers

His final stats were 2,415 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, which weren’t eye-popping.

However, it was the way he ended the season that provided hope. In the last three games, Chiles threw five touchdowns and zero interceptions, showing significant improvement in decision-making and accuracy.

The Spartans’ success in 2025 will largely depend on Chiles’ growth as a quarterback. If he can build on his late-season momentum, cut down on mistakes, and improve his accuracy, Michigan State’s offense could take a major step forward.

Chiles has the physical tools to be an elite quarterback. Standing at 6-foot-3 with a strong arm and solid mobility, he possesses all the necessary traits. The key will be consistency and leadership. If he puts it all together, he could be one of the top quarterbacks in the conference.