Jack Velling explains why he followed Jonathan Smith from Oregon State to Michigan State

As Michigan State gets set to head into its first season under new head coach Jonathan Smith, the Spartans will be relying on a couple Oregon State transfers to help show players the ropes. That number includes tight end Jack Velling, a second-team All-Pac-12 selection in 2023.

Velling was one of three players that followed Smith from Oregon State to Michigan State.

“It was a tough decision. A lot of factors went into it,” Velling said at Big Ten Media Days. “Kind of the final thing that went into it was I had a good year last year and the year before that, and I thought why would I leave and take a risk somewhere else when I can just come here and try to take another step next year?”

Jack Velling will be an important piece for the Spartans on offense.

He has recorded 45 catches for 719 yards and 11 touchdowns the last two seasons with the Beavers. That’s the kind of pass-catching ability from the tight end position that can force opposing defensive coordinators to gameplan for.

So far, Velling is pleased with his decision to link back up with Smith.

“With him and coach (Brian) Lindgren and coach (Brian Wozniak) it felt like the right decision for me,” Jack Velling said.

Creating a culture imperative for Michigan State

One of the reasons Jack Velling’s transfer was so important is that he can help establish the culture Smith wants to build in the program. That’s no small thing.

Smith talked quite a bit about building the culture on Wednesday at Big Ten Media Days.

“Well, it starts with laying a foundation of some work ethic and accountability within your own building,” Smith said. “I think it’s similar in regards to work ethic, deep passion for football. Wanting to be a good teammate, this is the ultimate team game — guys that don’t want to make it all about themselves and want to be a part of something bigger than themselves. Those attributes are what we’re looking for besides, obviously, the skillset side and all that.”

Michigan State will open its season on Aug. 30 against Florida Atlantic.