Jack Velling has strong message for transfers considering Michigan State football

Jack Velling’s first season with Michigan State football didn’t quite go as planned.

The former All-Pac-12 tight end led the nation’s tight ends with eight touchdown receptions a year ago but couldn’t find a way to be consistent as a pass-catcher for Aidan Chiles this year. The two just weren’t on the same page enough and then we saw major flashes of what they could be together in the Rutgers, Oregon, and Boston College games.

All signs are pointing to them figuring it out this offseason and coming back with a vengeance in 2025.

Since it’s seemingly the case that Velling will return alongside Chiles at quarterback, he was asked following the season finale loss to Rutgers what he could tell players in the portal looking to choose Michigan State.

His answer was perfect.

Jack Velling: "I would tell people in the portal 'we got the best coaching staff in the nation, we got a great culture here, East Lansing is a great spot.'"

— Emmett Matasovsky (@E_Matasovsky57) December 1, 2024

Velling said that he would tell players in the portal that Michigan State has the best coaching staff in the nation, it has a great culture, and that East Lansing is a great place to live.

Hearing this come from a player who may not have had the ideal season following a breakout with his former program in 2023 is high praise. It shows that he believes in the coaching staff and the direction of the program, regardless of his personal accolades. It also makes it seem like he’s announcing that he’s back for the 2025 season which is only going to aid an offense that desperately needs help in the portal.

Having a former transfer speak this highly of the staff and the school while likely opting to return for another season after being an NFL draft prospect is going to be important when the staff brings transfer targets to campus for visits. He could be the perfect spokesperson for the program and how to succeed as a transfer in East Lansing.

It’s good to see former transfers vouching for the future of Michigan State football.