It feels way too early to start caring about the 2026 recruiting class, but shockingly that's the next group up for Michigan State football after Jonathan Smith puts the finishing touches on the transfer class.
But Michigan State has been eyeing some big-time recruits in 2026 like four-star running back Favour Akih as well as another that has just surfaced on Wednesday.
While Akih (the No. 105 recruit in 2026) might be atop Michigan State's big board at the running back position, Smith and Co. wouldn't say no to a commitment from a fellow four-star rusher in the class. That running back is none other than Painesville, Ohio, prospect Shahn Alston.
The 5-foot-9, 205-pound back from Ohio is ranked No. 118 overall in the class and should be highly sought after before he sets foot on a college campus next year.
Michigan State is already making him a priority, however.
And according to Tom Loy of 247Sports, Alston will be making his college decision this upcoming weekend at the Navy All-American Bowl. He is reportedly choosing between Michigan State, Wisconsin, Penn State, and USC. The Spartans have made the elite back's final four.
Class of 2026 Top247 running back Shahn Alston is ready to announce his commitment on Saturday at 2025 Navy All-American Bowl.
— Tom Loy (@TomLoy247) January 8, 2025
He spoke with 247Sports about his finalists.
Story: https://t.co/tO5XaAwNz1@shahnalston3 @247Sports / @AABonNBC pic.twitter.com/FytLacssdt
This is an interesting development because this is a name a lot of us haven't heard yet and he's this high on Smith and the Spartans. According to his 247Sports profile, he was also high on Florida, Auburn, Missouri, and Nebraska before cutting his list to four on Wednesday. He also held offers from Baylor, Cincinnati, Indiana, Louisville, Miami, and West Virginia, among others.
We'll see if Michigan State can kick off its 2026 recruiting class with a bang on Saturday.