Latest developments in Keon Coleman portal recruitment don't look positive for Michigan State
East Lansing, Mich. – Michigan State’s chances of enticing Keon Coleman to stay with the Spartans seemed to take a massive dip on Wednesday. The junior wide receiver entered the transfer portal on Sunday without releasing a message on social media announcing the move, which led some observers to believe that he was leaving the door more than slightly ajar for a possible return to Michigan State.
However, that theory took a hit on Wednesday evening when Coleman – one of the top wide receivers in the transfer portal – released a message via Instagram which suggests more strongly that his intentions are to move on from Michigan State.
In the social media post, Coleman said: “I know you all already have seen the rumors and speculations. Yes, they are true. I wanted to take the time and show my appreciation to you all. I appreciate you all for taking me in with open arms and helping me become the player I am and the man I am off the field. I appreciate the everlasting support I’ve received in the my time being here.
“To the coaching staff, I thank you for giving me a chance to further my academic and athletic career here and I’m very appreciative of the growth development that has happened over these past few years.
“After careful consideration, I’ve decided to enter the transfer portal.”
Earlier on Wednesday, SpartanMag confirmed that Coleman plans to visit Florida State this weekend. Other schools involved in the Coleman chase include but are not limited to Tennessee, LSU, North Carolina and Oklahoma.
The combination of the planned visit to Florida State and the social media message are, if nothing else, a symbolic blow to Michigan State’s hopes of retaining the 6-foot-4 wide receiver.
Coleman had a sit-down meeting with Michigan State head coach Mel Tucker on Monday in Tucker’s office. Sources tell SpartanMag that communication between Tucker and Coleman has been strong and productive throughout the process.
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Michigan State has explored avenues of matching or approaching some of the NIL packages that are being presented to Coleman by other schools.
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Meanwhile, it’s unclear how Coleman feels about the quarterback situation at Michigan State – with Payton Thorne in the portal and Noah Kim presumably set to enter the summer as the Spartans’ likely first-string signal caller – in comparison to the quarterback and receiver picture at other schools, such as Florida State, LSU and Tennessee.
Coleman led Michigan State in receptions last year with 58 receptions and was named third-team All-Big Ten by media and was honorable mention by coaches.
Coleman, Thorne and cornerback Charles Brantley entered the transfer portal on Sunday. Brantley removed his name from the portal on Tuesday.
Thorne remains in the portal, with rumors growing stronger that Auburn is seriously pursuing him.
