Connor Heyward is proof that Keon Coleman could benefit from return

Connor Heyward entered the transfer portal a few years ago, but decided to return and it paid off. Keon Coleman have the same success.

Three years ago, Connor Heyward was ready to transfer from Michigan State football, entering his name in the portal in search of a new team.

Months later, Mel Tucker was hired at Michigan State, and he convinced Heyward to stay.

The next fall, he excelled in a new role with the Spartans. He subsequently graduated from the university and is currently enjoying an NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

This isn’t just about Connor Heyward.

News was recently reported that wide receiver Keon Coleman would be entering the NCAA transfer portal. The announcement led to a lot of shock and dismay, with the fanbase mourning the loss of their No. 1 wideout.

But entering the portal doesn’t mean a deal is done elsewhere — far from it, in fact.

Coleman, if he so choses, could very easily withdraw from the portal and return to Michigan State.  There here hasn’t been a lot of information out there on where Coleman is considering going (or not going), but a reunion certainly can’t be ruled out. It would make plenty of sense as the undisputed top dog in MSU’s receiver room, Coleman would likely be in for a monster season.

Plus, as a lot of college athletes have unfortunately discovered, transferring elsewhere doesn’t always go as seamlessly as the player probably intended.  Sometimes, it’s the best move for a player to stick around — and it can pay off, big time.

At the end of the day, though, it’s Coleman’s choice. I’d love to see him back on the field for MSU in 2023, but if he doesn’t end up there, fans will have to be OK with it. He’s still a college kid.

A return is absolutely worth thinking about, though.

The grass isn’t always greener. Just ask Connor Heyward.