Michigan State football pushing for Notre Dame WR transfer Jordan Johnson

A new name has entered the transfer portal this week as former five-star receiver Jordan Johnson made the decision to leave Notre Dame on Monday. And, you guessed it, Michigan State football and Mel Tucker are interested.

According to a report from Mike Farrell of Rivals, Michigan State has been one of the teams to reach out to him since he entered the portal on Monday.

The Spartans, along with about a dozen other Power Five programs, have reached out and are gauging interest. After losing Jameson Williams to Alabama on Monday, Michigan State may be looking to add another starting-caliber receiver. Like Williams, Johnson was a top-100 recruit but he was actually a five-star prospect.

The Saint Louis, Mo., native was actually listed as the No. 37 composite player in the class but Rivals had him at No. 28 overall and as a five-star. He was the No. 6 receiver in the 2020 recruiting class.

Michigan State football could sell him on playing time

What Michigan State sold Williams on was the opportunity to be a starter and a potential top target in the 2021 offense. The opportunity to come in right away and push for starting snaps was actually intriguing but he ultimately chose Alabama and a serious shot at a national title in year one.

The Spartans could sell Johnson on the same thing. He’s a 6-foot-1, 185-pound receiver with plenty of athleticism and a great frame with strong hands. There’s a reason he was considered a five-star recruit in the 2020 class.

Johnson would come in and immediately become one of the top two receivers on the roster. Imagine a trio of Johnson, Jayden Reed, and Jalen Nailor. Defenses would have a tough time.

Plus, the addition of Johnson would only help the new starting quarterback adjust quicker to his new role. If he has three top-tier receivers to throw to, there’s no chance he struggles.