Michigan State flips Brady Pretzlaff; Jonathan Smith made LB a priority

The 3-star linebacker from Gaylord (MI) was previously committed to the University of Minnesota

The Michigan State Spartans added 3-star linebacker Brady Pretzlaff from Gaylord, Michigan on Wednesday's early signing day. Pretzlaff chose Michigan State over  Stanford, Illinois and Michigan. Pretzlaff was committed to the University of Minnesota, but he decommitted from the Gophers on December 13.

Michigan State head coach Jonathan Smith made Pretzlaff a priority when he took the job weeks ago. New Michigan State defensive coordinator Joe Rossi joined the staff from Minnesota.

"The first thing was being able to play for a home state team," Pretzlaff told 247sports. "Having family and friends be able to come to home games every week is big. Also the relationship I have with Coach Rossi and what I’ve gotten to know about Coach Smith, I think that with the resources at Michigan State, they can really build it up."

Pretzlaff is the No. 60 linebacker in the class of 2024, according to 247sports.com. Pretzlaff was the top remaining uncommitted prospect in Michigan entering Wednesday. 

Pretzlaff took a visit to Michigan State on December 8. 

Cover photo by David Reginek-USA TODAY Sports

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