Michigan State football: Jalen Thompson locked in with Spartans

Michigan State football has another player “locked in” for the future as Jalen Thompson affirmed his status on X.

As much of our focus is on the Michigan State football players who are entering the portal, there are still players and key contributors who seem all but locked in. Among those players, are a few guys who I think could be key contributors and building blocks for the future for Jonathan Smith and his staff.

You can now add freshman defensive end Jalen Thompson to the list.

Securing the future

Thompson took to X.com earlier Saturday afternoon with a simple message, but one that should put some ease in Spartan fans’ minds. Over a post by fellow defender, Charles Brantley the freshman phenom posted #SD4L.

The mantra, used by former Spartans, and current ones, is a rallying cry, or bat-signal for other guys who have locked in their futures in East Lansing. 

#SD4L https://t.co/f3kjeY9XJO

— Jalen Thompson ✞ (@__4jalen) December 2, 2023

The post, from defensive back Charles Brantley, that the former four-star was quoting, also included a message to help provide fans with ease of mind. “Just chill, we’re coming back, trust…”

It’s hard to ignore the implications behind these comments. Not only are these guys staying as Spartans, but they are revived and refreshed with a new staff coming in. 

Freshman impact

Securing Thompson’s future in East Lansing was likely a high priority for Smith during his first week. Jalen Thompson, from Cass Tech in Detroit, made a big impact in year one. During Michigan State’s Week 9 win against Nebraska, Thompson logged a PFF grade of 78.3. This was the highest score for freshman edge rushers in the Big Ten, and the No. 2 rating among all NCAA freshman edge rushers. Playing in only seven games, Jalen tallied 19 total tackles, two sacks, and forced a fumble in that Week 9 win. He became a regular at the edge spot during the final month of the season. 

Among the two defenders, Thompson and Brantley, another Spartan lineman has made his plans quite obvious as well, even putting his recruiting efforts to use on social media at times. Ken Talley has been quite active on social media making recruiting pitches to former teammates, and other players announcing their decisions to enter the portal and depart from their respective schools. 

Defensive line coach key for defense

It’s been reported by Justin Thind of 247Sports that the Spartans and Jonathan Smith are set to bring in Oregon State defensive line coach Legi Suiaunoa. He was key in coaching the Oregon State defensive line, which helped aid the Beavers’ 14-ranked rush defense in 2023.

Locking in Suiaunoa and the rest of the defensive staff could aid in retaining players, as well as recruiting through the portal. Michigan State football is still in a good place with their 2024 defensive recruits, three-star defensive backs, Jaylen Thompson, and Justin Denson.

Also locked in is Jadyn Walker, a three-star linebacker from Kalamazoo.

Thompson was one of four defensive players that I thought Jonathan Smith should prioritize. With Thompson hinting at his plans through social media, I’m looking at fellow freshmen, defensive end Bai Jobe, defensive back Chance Rucker, and linebacker Jordan Hall. If Smith can cement these guys as Spartans in 2024, the defense will be in a great place. But for now, Jalen Thompson making this statement is a good sign of things to come.