It definitely has not been uncommon to see Michigan State football players come and go via the NCAA transfer portal since Mel Tucker took over at MSU, but this one does come as a bit of a surprise. On Wednesday, Michigan State true freshman linebacker Ma’a Gaoteote entered the NCAA transfer portal.
Gaoteote was MSU’s top recruit of the 2021 recruiting class and his brother currently plays for Ohio State. Gaoteote could still return to MSU, entering the portal just allows players to have conversations with other schools.
This move is likely related to MSU bringing in a few veteran transfers at the linebacker position that could postpone Gaoteote’s ability to become a regular starter.
Michigan State LB Ma'a Gaoteote has entered the NCAA transfer portal, @freepsports has learned.
— Rainer Sabin (@RainerSabin) January 19, 2022