News Summary
In response to a challenging 2-10 season, Mississippi State University has made significant changes to its football roster through the transfer portal, addressing weaknesses particularly in the defensive line and secondary. Over 40 players have left the program, prompting the integration of new talent aimed at improving performance for the upcoming season. Notable additions include freshman Dwight Lewis, who brings impressive skills from his previous season. The team is gearing up for preseason practices, anticipating fierce competition for starting positions as they aim for a turnaround in the SEC.
Starkville, Mississippi – In a bid to turnaround after a disappointing 2-10 season, Mississippi State University has significantly revamped its football roster through the transfer portal. This comes in light of over 40 players exiting the program, prompting the coaching staff to focus on major improvements, particularly in the defensive line and secondary, which faced criticism for being passive last season.
The Bulldogs’ secondary was ranked No. 15 in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and No. 105 nationally, as they allowed over 240 passing yards per game. To address these shortcomings, several new players have been integrated into the squad, with defensive backs coach Corey Bell noting that these additions are building strong chemistry both on and off the field.
As part of the recruitment for the 2025 season, Mississippi State’s class features five true freshmen along with four transfers, including Dwight Lewis, a standout from the NAIA. Lewis chose Mississippi State over 34 other offers from FBS and FCS programs. In the 2024 season, he recorded impressive stats: 25 tackles, four interceptions, two pass breakups, and a forced fumble. His performance during spring training has garnered optimism from the coaching crew, although he is expected to face an adjustment period transitioning from NAIA to the SEC.
Lewis has remarkable speed, clocking in at 4.4 seconds in the 40-yard dash, bolstering his coverage skills and overall defensive capabilities. Importantly, he has two years of eligibility remaining at Mississippi State, presenting a valuable opportunity for the Bulldogs.
In terms of overall team structure, Blake Shapen is set to take on the role of starting quarterback for the Bulldogs as he continues to recover from a shoulder injury that sidelined him during the 2024 season. Running back responsibilities will likely be shared between Davon Booth and Fluff Bothwell, while Isaac Smith is anticipated to fill a hybrid linebacker/safety position. The preseason practices, which commence on July 31, 2025, will reveal key position battles as the team firms up its starting line-up.
Returning players from the previous season such as Kelley Jones and Brylan Lanier will be facing stiff competition from new recruits like Jayven Williams and Amarien Jefferson, as the coaching staff looks to enhance performance across all positions.
The defensive line emerged as a critical weakness for Mississippi State last season, registering only 10 sacks and conceding an average of 216.9 rushing yards per game. With no defensive linemen starting at least six games returning for 2025, the Bulldogs have recruited eight new defensive linemen and edge rushers to address the glaring deficiencies in this area.
Among the new faces, Jamil Burroughs has transferred from Miami after a year on the sidelines due to NCAA transfer rules. Meanwhile, the offensive line is undergoing a significant overhaul under new coach Phil Loadholt as three starters have departed, leaving numerous positions up for grabs. Returning players such as Albert Reese IV, Luke Work, and Jacoby Jackson are expected, as well as five new transfers aimed at strengthening the line.
Coach Jeff Lebby has emphasized the urgent necessity to finalize the starting offensive line to ensure optimal preparation for the upcoming season. Additionally, Seydou Traore, slated to be the starting tight end, may see his position challenged by the addition of two tight ends from the transfer portal, leading to heightened competition within the team.
As Mississippi State gears up for the 2025 season, the changes and new acquisitions are paving the way for a hopeful turnaround. The extensive revamping of the roster signifies a fresh start for the Bulldogs as they aim for a more competitive performance in the SEC.
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Additional Resources
- 247Sports: Brodie McWhorter Joins Mississippi State Football
- Wikipedia: Mississippi State Bulldogs Football
- Clarion Ledger: Mississippi State Football Preseason Practice
- Google Search: Mississippi State football news
- 247Sports: Adam Land’s Commitment to Mississippi State
- Google Scholar: Mississippi State football
- SI: 40 in 40: Mississippi State’s New Power Back
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mississippi State Bulldogs
- 247Sports: Coach Interview with Matt Barnes
- Google News: Mississippi State Bulldogs
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
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