Michigan State Football: Donovan Eaglin transfer brings more clarity to RB battle

Per his Twitter, Michigan State football’s Donovan Eaglin has announced his intention to transfer. This clears up the picture for MSU’s running back battle.

Donovan Eaglin was a member of former coach Mark Dantonio’s 2020 and last recruiting class. Hailing from Rosharon, Texas, Michigan State was the only FBS offer for Eaglin out of high school. He was a standout at Manvel High School, recording 1,584 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns as a senior.

Eaglin also holds the distinction of being the last player to commit under coach Dantonio, pledging to the Spartans on January 29, 2020. Less than a week later, Dantonio stepped down as head coach of the Spartans.

The redshirt sophomore played in all 13 games for the Spartans last year primarily on special teams. It was enough for him to earn his first career letter. He had six carries for 33 yards against Youngstown State on offense. Additionally, he was named co-special teams player of the week against Nebraska. He is a shifty runner who I was rather excited to see in his limited field action this year.

As highlighted in my preview of the running back room, it would have been a tough go for Eaglin to see the field on offense this year. He was competing against six other running backs, of whom four have starting experience. Additionally, the Spartans have a top running back committed from this upcoming 2023 class in Kedrick Reescano, adding even more competition to a stacked position group.

Since he has just entered the transfer portal, there are no predictions or leaders for the 235-pound back at this time. Eaglin will have three years of eligibility left when he lands at his new program.

We would like to thank Eaglin for his time at Michigan State, as well as wish him the very best in his future athletic and academic endeavors.