Recruiting Battle Shockwave: Michigan State Loses Star Quarterback Commit After Stunning Announcement—“I’m Leaving”
In a gut-wrenching blow to Michigan State’s 2025 football recruiting class, 4-star quarterback and early enrollee Jaxon Reddick has shocked the Spartan Nation with a fiery social media announcement: “I’m leaving.”
The 6’3”, 210-pound signal-caller from Allen, Texas, was considered the crown jewel of Michigan State’s offensive rebuild under Head Coach Jonathan Smith. Reddick had enrolled in January, dazzled in spring practice, and was widely projected as the future face of the program. But in a stunning twist, he’s entered the NCAA transfer portal—just weeks before fall camp begins.
Reddick broke the news late Sunday night via an Instagram story featuring the MSU logo fading to black with a blunt caption:
“Sometimes loyalty isn’t enough. I’m leaving. Details soon.”
Sources close to the program indicate the quarterback’s departure stemmed from mounting internal tensions over Michigan State’s decision to pursue a graduate transfer QB from the SEC, reportedly to add “veteran leadership.” That move, insiders say, blindsided Reddick, who had already taken first-team reps during spring and had built rapport with the starting offense.
“I gave them everything. I came in early, bought into the culture, and did what was asked,” Reddick wrote in a now-deleted X post. “But when you’re treated like a backup before you’ve even had a chance, it’s time to go where you’re valued.”
The announcement has already stirred a whirlwind of speculation across the college football landscape. Reddick is rumored to be on the radar of multiple Power 5 programs, including Florida State, Oregon, and USC—all of whom pursued him heavily during his senior year before he committed to Michigan State in July 2024.
Coach Jonathan Smith issued a brief statement Monday morning:
“We’re grateful for Jaxon’s time here and wish him the best. The QB room remains strong, and our focus remains on preparing for the season ahead.”
Still, the loss stings. Reddick wasn’t just a recruit—he was a symbol of hope for a new Spartan era. With Big Ten expansion, fierce quarterback competition, and NIL dynamics reshaping the recruiting battlefield, Michigan State now faces a critical challenge: replacing a leader they thought was already home.
The battle for the future continues.