Michigan State signs 2025 three-star Upper Arlington (Ohio) DL Cal Thrush
Michigan State signed 2025 three-star Upper Arlington (Ohio) defensive lineman Cal Thrush on Wednesday.
Thrush (6-5, 250) originally announced his pledge to Michigan State in June. Spartan defensive coordinator Joe Rossi, rush ends coach Chad Wilt and defensive line coach Legi Suiaunoa all had a hand in recruiting Thrush. Rossi offered Thursh after a visit to his high school in the spring.
Thrush also took an official visit to Cincinnati in June. At the time, the Bearcats were Thrush’s only other Power Four offer. He also took multiple unofficial visits to Ohio State over the summer as the Buckeyes closely monitored his recruitment.
Thrush also took unofficial visits to Northwestern, Louisville, Georgia Tech, West Virginia and Pittsburgh, among other schools. Michigan State managed to lock up Thrush shortly after his commitment, however.
Thrush is the No. 1,216 prospect, No. 107 EDGE and No. 50 recruit from Ohio in the 2025 class, per the On3 Industry Rankings.
Michigan State also expects to sign four-star Frankenmuth (Mich.) defensive tackle Derrick Simmons and three-star Kahuku (Hawaii) EDGE Leonard Ah You as part of its 2025 defensive line class.
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Scouting summary
Given his 6-foot-5, 250-pound frame, Thrush could slide to the interior of the defensive line at Michigan State, so long as he continues to add weight. Thrush spent the majority of his junior season sidelined with an injury. He worked to improve his footwork and agility as a senior.
Thrush is a physical lineman with strong push and a long frame, which gives Michigan State’s staff a lot to work with as he refines his game in East Lansing.
Upper Arlington finished the 2024 season with a 10-3 record, winning the Ohio Capital-Central Conference along the way. Powell (Ohio) Olentangy Liberty eliminated Upper Arlington from the OHSAA Division I playoffs.
Thrush earned OCC Defensive Player of the Year honors as a senior. He’s a former two-time caption for Upper Arlington.
