247Sports notes two Spartan defenders as potential breakout candidate in 2025

Michigan State football is gearing up for the 2025 campaign, the second in Jonathan Smith's tenure in East Lansing.

While there is a ton of buzz centered around Michigan State's offense and the offensive additions the team made this offseason, but the talk about the Spartans defense has been limited, although it is the unit that could make or break the season in 2025. A notable figure in college football media recognized two Spartan defenders, though.

247Sports national reporter Matt Zenitz has been breaking down the top 25 breakout candidates in each of the four power conferences, and in his Big Ten breakdown, he recognized two Spartan defenders as breakout candidates.

Texas State, via Oklahoma, defensive back transfer Joshua Eaton was mentioned, who is expected to be the Spartans best cornerback this season.

The second player noted was junior linebacker Jordan Hall. The linebacker has been well known around MSU, but has not quite broke through, but Zenitz sees 2025 as the season that it finally happens.

Two #MichiganState players named breakout candidates, per Matt Zenitz’s sources.

- A key defensive transfer
- A returning front-7 defender

Would be big for MSU’s defense if this comes to fruition, especially with the offensive side of the ball trending even higher up as a unit. https://t.co/zzkjS2ALrd— SpartanTailgate.com (@SpartanTailgate) July 16, 2025

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This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: Michigan State football defenders listed as breakout candidates