Key MSU football defensive lineman confirms return for 2026 season

A key Michigan State football defensive lineman confirmed on Friday that he'll be back for one more year with the Spartans.

Spartans defensive lineman Ben Roberts took to social media on Friday to officially announce his return for another season with Michigan State in 2026. His post on social media network X confirms an earlier hint of his return for the 2026 season in December.

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Roberts will be entering his third season with the Spartans, transferring to Michigan State from Oregon ahead of the 2024 campaign. He has appeared in 17 games at Michigan State over the last two seasons, recording 19 tackles (two for loss) and one sack.

This past season, Roberts suffered a season-ending injury against Michigan that cut his year short. If he can return at full strength next season, he will be a massive impact in the run game -- considered an elite run stuffer up front. With the number of departures on the defensive line, getting Roberts to return is a great sign for Michigan State.

The transfer portal officially opened on Friday and will remain open through January 16. Follow all of the latest Michigan State football transfer portal departures and additions via our transfer portal tracker.

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This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: Key MSU football DL Ben Roberts confirm return for 2026 season