Jalen Thompson was a guy who many fans expected to have a breakout campaign as a sophomore in 2024. He had just finished a strong freshman season despite going through a tumultuous coaching change that rocked his first year on campus. He still stood out as a rising star.
However, he didn't quite live up to the hype as a sophomore. He finished his second season with two fewer tackles (17) and three fewer tackles for loss (2) compared to his 2023 campaign.
Oh, and, like many Spartans, he didn't record a single sack after having two as a freshman.
So heading into his junior year, he's facing a major prove-it season, and from the sounds of it, he's making the most of his opportunities early on in fall camp.
According to defensive coordinator Joe Rossi, Thompson has "taken that next step" this fall and while he did his job last season, he's actually making plays this time around.
Michigan State DC Joe Rossi on Junior DL Jalen Thompson:
— Kenny Jordan (@Kenny_Jordan5) August 5, 2025
“Last year he had a good year and did his job, which is what you like from a young guy. But this year he’s taken that next step where it’s like he’s making plays.”
Rossi said Thompson has been disruptive in both the rush…
Disruptive in both pass and run situations while making plays instead of just "doing his job" is a great development for the defensive line. Thompson has the potential to be a star on that defensive line, but he just needs to show up and do the work which is exactly what he's been doing so far over the past week.
As one of the leaders of the defensive line room, Thompson needs to step up and show that he's not just a guy who holds a spot on the depth chart and rather become the player he's capable of being.
Rossi believes he's going to do that in 2025, and the defensive line sorely needs it.