Michigan State Football: Could Cade McDonald be next star walk-on?

Mark Dantonio has built the Michigan State football program by finding diamonds in the rough. Could Cade McDonald be that next celebrated walk-on?

Former offensive lineman Jack Conklin has been the biggest success story under Mark Dantonio. However, before him, there was former walk-on wide receiver Blair White. I remember reading a story years ago about how White camped outside of Dantonio’s office in order to get a tryout with Michigan State.

This past season saw offensive lineman Blake Bueter (a former walk-on) earn a scholarship and contribute with starting snaps. There are many more stories like former Spartan Kyler Elsworth and current senior lineman Cole Chewins.

Now there’s Cade McDonald.

Who is McDonald? He was incoming freshman quarterback Payton Throne’s favorite target during their senior year at Naperville Central High School in Illinois. He erupted his senior season for 91 receptions, 1,397 yards and 18 touchdowns. He also had four touchdowns on kickoffs. He may only stand at 5-foot-11 and 180 pounds, but he has great hands, concentration and attacks the pigskin at its highest point.

Cade’s junior season pales in comparison to his senior year. He understands how to work in space and run himself open on routes. He can also make opponents miss with his side steps and quickness. He is not blazing fast, but he plays the slot receiver well.

In many ways, he reminds a bit of Keyshawn Martin with his ability to dodge defenders and turn a 3-yard gain or loss into a first down.

McDonald is an ideal fit for Dantonio’s scheme. However, he will not see the field for a long while with the likes of Cody White, Cam Chambers and Jalen Nailor ahead of him. The Spartans do need to keep an eye out for Cade in the future as he could turn out to be another diamond in the rough for Dantonio.