In-state LB DiMari Malone commits to Michigan State

Macomb (Mich.) Dakota linebacker DiMari Malone announced his commitment to Michigan State on Mother’s Day Sunday. 

The 6-foot-2, 220-pound Malone chose to play for head coach Jonathan Smith and Spartans over Minnesota, Rutgers, Illinois, Kansas, Indiana, West Virginia and Pittsburgh among others.

“Honestly feel like when I went up there it was really comfortable for me,” Malone told On3. Defensive coordinator Joe Rossi was the leader recruiter. 

“I like how the coaches work with their players and I felt like it was the perfect fit for me. I like Coach Rossi and Coach Smith. It’s pretty close to home too. 

“That’s something I love about it.”

Malone becomes commit No. 3 for the Spartans in the 2025 cycle joining fellow linebacker Charles White out of Orchard Lake (Mich.) St. Mary’s and quarterback Leo Hannan out of Anaheim (Calif.) Servite.

“I feel like with the class of 2025 and 2026 we got a special class coming up,” Malone said. “With them recruiting the Midwest and before they go out of the Midwest, I feel that’s a huge part because there is dawgs in the Midwest. I think we could be part of that.”

As a junior Malone registered 73 tackles including eight stops for loss, three forced fumbles, three interceptions, two recoveries, six pass breakups and a sack. The Spartans are recruiting him as an outside linebacker that will also learn the MIKE responsibilities.

“I love their defense,” Malone said. “I like how the guys work with each other. Their bond seems close as a team. Everyone gets a long. I love the campus. It was sweet. 

“Everything about it stood out it.”