Michigan State football showing interest in Oklahoma State DB transfer

Jonathan Smith has made the defensive backfield a priority in the transfer portal so far this offseason for Michigan State football and it doesn't look like the first-year head coach is done just yet.

Smith has landed guys like Malcolm Bell, NiJhay Burt, and Joshua Eaton, but judging by the way the Spartans played against the pass this past season, that won't be quite enough -- especially with how hard the injuries hit this team.

According to reports, he is targeting another defensive back in the form of Oklahoma State transfer Kobe Kylton who began his career at UTEP and starred there for two years.

In two years at UTEP before transferring to Oklahoma State for the 2024 season, Hylton had 146 total tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, seven pass breakups, and four forced fumbles. He was one of the best defensive backs in the Group of Five before picking the Cowboys where he finished with 40 tackles, a tackle for loss, his first career pick, and two pass breakups while playing safety for Oklahoma State.

The switch from cornerback in the Group of Five to safety in the Power Five couldn't have been an easy one but he played well and appeared in all 12 games for Oklahoma State.

Now, he's going to be one of the most sought after defensive backs in the portal.

However, outside of Iowa State and Wake Forest, Michigan State doesn't have much Power Five competition early on. Smith could put the pressure on, secure a visit, and win this recruitment, bolstering the defensive backfield with a guy who can play bother cornerback and safety.