Another player from the Michigan State Spartans has entered the transfer portal this week, contributing to the team’s recent roster changes.
Defensive back Malcolm Jones is the latest departure from the Spartans’ defensive backs lineup, according to reports from Rivals.
Jones, who played 11 games for the Spartans, including eight in the previous season, registered four tackles in the 2023 campaign, alongside 56 special teams snaps and nine defensive snaps.
In his debut season with Michigan State, Jones appeared in three games, primarily contributing on special teams, totaling 14 appearances. The Georgia native, recognized as a four-star prospect by On3, ranked 264th nationally in the 2022 recruiting class and 23rd among safeties.
Before joining Michigan State, Jones showcased his talent at Lee County High School in Georgia, where he played a pivotal role in leading his team to the Class 6A quarterfinals and state finals in consecutive seasons, boasting impressive records.
While Jones’s departure may not significantly impact the Spartans’ defense, it contributes to the ongoing trend of players entering the transfer portal following the spring ball season. Notable among recent departures is defensive tackle Derrick Harmon, who recorded a career-high 40 tackles in his final season with the program.
Concerns among fans are palpable as the spring roster continues to shrink. However, first-year Spartans coach Jonathan Smith has emphasized his staff’s proactive approach in utilizing the transfer portal to address roster gaps. Smith, who brought several players from Oregon State, including quarterback Aidan Chiles, has an extensive network across various conferences, facilitating potential recruitments.
With the transfer portal closing soon, time is of the essence for Smith and his team to secure replacements for departed players. Michigan State has seen a total of 33 players enter the transfer portal this offseason, highlighting the urgency for strategic roster adjustments.
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