Pat Fitzgerald has done a good job of addressing backfield needs this offseason with additions of Cam Edwards from UConn, Jaziun Patterson from Iowa, and Marvis Parrish from Western Kentucky to carry the load. However, the Michigan State football coach was able to convince another solid rusher to return in 2026.
Makhi Frazier is gone, but the starter when Frazier was injured this season, Brandon Tullis, looks like he’s returning as a junior.
According to his official X account, Tullis is planning on returning for the 2026 season under the new coaching staff.
2026🆙 #GoGreen pic.twitter.com/1qj8LLTnZd
— Brandon Tullis (@Brandont_28) January 12, 2026
Tullis returning is actually quite surprising given the fact that Michigan State is bringing in three new rushers, and presumably returning Jace Clarizio. On top of that, H-back-type Carson Gulker is also coming in with the 2026 transfer class from Ferris State.
The backfield is rather loaded, but you have to appreciate the confidence that Tullis possesses. He knows that there are four new potential ball-carriers coming in, but he feels like he has what it takes to not only crack the rotation, but fight for starting carries. He would probably be a really solid complement to Edwards, who I believe will start.
Tullis could be a quality RB2 for an up-and-comer like Michigan State.
Michigan State’s backfield looks loaded
Michigan State has landed three running backs, an H-back, and is bringing back at least one rusher from the 2025 team, creating an intriguing backfield.
Tullis was solid in 2025, rushing for 301 yards and four touchdowns on 69 carries — he averaged 4.4 yards per carry behind a mediocre offensive line. That’s can’t be too bad. He’ll now have a better offensive line paving the way in 2026, and he’s going to have to fight for carries which should make him more motivated than ever.
A backfield with Edwards (a 1,000-yard rusher in 2025), Patterson (averaged 4.9 yards as a junior), and Parrish (had over 500 yards on 5.4 yards per carry) should only make the run game more effective. The Spartans will have plenty of options.
No Frazier in 2026? No problem. Fitzgerald has done a great job with the backfield over the past week.