Michigan State's pre-portal roster projection: Defensive line

Michigan State football is gearing up for a roster overhaul, with new head coach Pat Fitzgerald needing to put together his first roster in East Lansing through the transfer portal. With the transfer portal opening on Jan. 2, and only lasting for two weeks, it will be imperative to make a strong and immediate impact.

The first step to shoring up the roster is evaluating the members of MSU's roster that will be retained, while identifying the needs to plug holes in the starting lineup.

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Taking a look at the position groups on the Spartans roster, it will distinguish who the team may be pursuing when the portal opens at the turn of the new year.

After breaking down the offensive side of the ball, and special teams, it is time to turn the attention to the defensive side of the ball, starting with the defensive line.

The defensive line, as it stands right now without any more defections, is a perfect blend of veteran presence, but also needing upgrades. Certainly, Michigan State needs a drastic improvement in the pass rushing department in 2026.

Depth Chart Projection:

• DT - Starters: Alex VanSumeren (RS SR), Ben Roberts (RS SR)

  • Backups: Derrick Simmons (RS FR), Mikeshun Beeler (RS Soph), transfer, Hudson Aultman (FR)

• DE - Starter: Jalen Thompson (SR)

  • Backups: Kekai Burnett (RS Soph), Cal Thrush, transfer

• Edge - Starter: Transfer

  • Backups: David Santiago (RS JR), Anelu Lafaele (RS Soph)

Outlook: As it shows, there is a ton of good veteran depth, but some clear needs to make the unit better. Santiago and Lafaele are great complimentary pieces at the edge, but adding a bona fide starter in front of them would be massive for their development and allow them to get another year of learning under their belt.

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At defensive tackle, VanSumeren and Roberts are studs, giving a solid floor to the unit. Simmons and Beeler are young guys waiting for their opportunity, and are close to being ready. For the sake of depth, I believe a DT or two will be added via the portal in more of a third string, in case of emergency, role.

Finally, at the defense end position, Thompson is back (as of now) and is a staple at the position. Burnett has been coming along nicely, and is a great first backup option. For the sake of improving the unit, though, don't be surprised if some competition gets added.

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This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: Michigan State's pre-portal roster projection: Defensive tackle