Michigan State freshmen vying for early playing time in 2026
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 11:31 AM
Last updated Aug 21, 2026

Michigan State football is preparing for the upcoming season under new head coach Pat Fitzgerald, hoping to reach their first bowl game since 2021. Among the 21 incoming freshmen, three players are highlighted for potentially making an immediate impact this fall: wide receiver Samson Gash, kicker Stephen Gonzales, and linebacker Adam Shaw. Each newcomer faces competition but has shown promise in preseason training, indicating they could see the field early in the season. Fans are eager to see how these players will perform as the Spartans seek to rebuild their roster.
- •Michigan State has 21 incoming freshmen this season.
- •Samson Gash is the top-rated recruit in the class.
- •Stephen Gonzales faces open competition at kicker.
- •Adam Shaw has impressed in training camp.
- •The Spartans seek to return to bowl eligibility.
- 11:31 AMYahoo Sports — Three true freshmen who could find playing time for Michigan State
"Three true freshmen that could make an immediate impact at Michigan State this fall.
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