As the NFL season kicks off, Michigan State fans have plenty to cheer for with over a dozen Spartans suited up across the league. Although MSU’s streak of Super Bowl winners was snapped last year when the Spartan-less Kansas City Chiefs hoisted the Lombardi Trophy, a fresh streak of draft selections began, with three former Spartans getting the call in April.
Wide receiver Jayden Reed (Green Bay Packers, second round), punter Bryce Baringer (New England Patriots, sixth round), and defensive back Ameer Speed (New England Patriots, sixth round) represented Michigan State in the 2024 NFL Draft. Their selections continued MSU’s legacy, marking back-to-back drafts with Spartan picks after the 80-year streak ended in 2021.
Here’s a look at where some of these Spartans have landed as NFL rosters finalized this week.
C Nick Samac, Baltimore Ravens
Nick Samac , who was drafted in the seventh round by the Ravens, steps into the professional ranks after an impressive college career at Michigan State. With 49 career games and 32 starts at center, Samac’s experience and durability will be valuable as he transitions to the NFL.
LB Joe Bachie, Cincinnati Bengals
Joe Bachie continues to be a reliable presence in the NFL, featuring in 39 games and amassing 45 total tackles. His experience and leadership are key assets for the Bengals' defense.
OT Jack Conklin, Cleveland Browns
Veteran tackle Jack Conklin remains a cornerstone of the Browns' offensive line. Having signed a four-year extension in 2022, Conklin has started 94 career games, providing stability and protection for the Cleveland offense.
P Bryce Baringer, New England Patriots
Bryce Baringer made waves in his rookie season, leading the NFL in punts downed inside the opponent's 20-yard line. With 98 punts averaging 46.9 yards per punt, Baringer quickly established himself as one of the league’s top punters.
TE/FB Connor Heyward, Pittsburgh Steelers
Connor Heyward has carved out a versatile role with the Steelers, playing in 34 games and recording 35 receptions for 318 yards and a touchdown. His ability to contribute both as a tight end and fullback makes him a valuable asset for Pittsburgh.
QB Kirk Cousins, Atlanta Falcons
Kirk Cousins, now with the Atlanta Falcons, brings a wealth of experience with 145 career starts. Over his 11-season career, Cousins has completed 3,465 passes for 39,471 yards and thrown 270 touchdowns. His veteran presence will be crucial for the Falcons’ offense.
WR Jayden Reed, Green Bay Packers
Jayden Reed made an immediate impact as a rookie, starting 13 games and recording 64 receptions for 793 yards and eight touchdowns. He also showcased his versatility with 119 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns.
WR Jalen Nailor, Minnesota Vikings
In his first two NFL seasons, Jalen Nailor has featured in 21 games, pulling in 12 receptions for 208 yards and a touchdown. Nailor continues to develop as a key target in the Vikings' receiving corps.
LB Ben VanSumeren, Philadelphia Eagles
Ben VanSumeren, an undrafted free agent, made his mark on special teams with the Eagles in 2023. Playing in nine games, he racked up 10 tackles and will look to build on that in his sophomore season.
LS Taybor Pepper, San Francisco 49ers
Taybor Pepper, now in his seventh NFL season, has been a consistent presence as the 49ers' starting long snapper for the past four years. He’s played in 63 games during that span, providing reliability in a crucial, often overlooked role.
RB Kenneth Walker III, Seattle Seahawks
Kenneth Walker III continues to shine as one of the league’s promising young running backs. In his first two seasons, Walker has rushed for 1,955 yards and 17 touchdowns, adding another 424 receiving yards and a touchdown through the air.
DL Williams Gholston, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Williams Gholston is entering his eleventh NFL season, all with the Buccaneers. With 169 career games and 88 starts under his belt, Gholston has been a durable and effective presence on the defensive line, tallying 420 career tackles and 19.5 sacks.
Practice Squad Spartans
Several former Spartans are also keeping their NFL dreams alive on practice squads: WR Cody White (Seattle Seahawks), CB Ameer Speed (Indianapolis Colts), CB Josh Butler (Dallas Cowboys), and OT AJ Arcuri (Los Angeles Rams).
The Ones Left Waiting
Unfortunately, not all former Spartans found a home on an NFL roster this year. Defensive tackle Naquan Jones, DT Jacob Slade, LB Jacoby Windmon, LB Andrew Dowell, TE Matt Sokol, C Mike Panasiuk, and C Brian Allen are currently free agents, hoping for another shot to prove their worth.
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