Just like the transfer portal announcements, the returning player announcements are important for new Michigan State head coach Pat Fitzerald.
The recently-hired head coach has learned of several key players entering the transfer portal like Gavin Broscious, Makhi Frazier, Aidan Chiles, and Nick Marsh. All four of those guys have starting experience and probably would have played a legitimate role on the 2026 team.
However, after talking with Fitzgerald (most of them), they've decided to hit the portal.
Some players have announced their returns already, though. Guys like Alessio Milivojevic, Martin Connington, and Brady Pretzlaff have all assured fans that they'll be back next season, but another big name has joined the mix (at least it looks that way): Derrick Simmons.
The former four-star defensive lineman from Frankenmuth, Mich., posted a workout video on X on Tuesday night, and he used the hashtag "SpartanDawg" which indicates that he's still a Spartan.
We’re back! 455 x 4 Squat, feeling smooth.#MSU #Gym #SpartanDawg pic.twitter.com/Qy24qPul4Z
— Derrick Simmons ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@DerrickSimm2025) December 16, 2025
Using both the "MSU" and "SpartanDawg" hashtags has to be a good sign for Michigan State.
Derrick Simmons could be the future of Michigan State's DL
There was a ton of excitement surrounding Derrick Simmons before the season as the coaching staff seemed to rave about him at every opportunity. He was dubbed one of the best freshman performers during fall camp, and Jonathan Smith said that he didn't think he'd be redshirting the former four-star.
Fortunately, it looks like he was able to hold on to his redshirt, giving him four more years of eligibility under Fitzgerald and his new staff.
That is, if he is officially returning like the signs are telling us.
The defensive line has been lacking consistent pressure and effectiveness over the past few years, and Simmons is a guy who could help change that. If guys like Alex VanSumeren and Jalen Thompson are also back next season, Simmons could join the fold and help create one of the most improved units in the Big Ten.
I mean, he was a four-star recruit for a reason.
Simmons was ranked the No. 245 prospect in the 2025 class as well as the state of Michigan's fourth-best recruit. He was also drawing a ton of praise in the preseason.
Assuming Simmons is back, this is a huge development for Michigan State's defense.