EXCLUSIVE: In-State MSU Target Reveals Insight Into Recruitment
Perhaps the biggest X-factor for the new era of Michigan State football is the coaching staff. Head coach Jonathan Smith assembled a star-studded roster of college football minds who can produce results on the field but, perhaps just as important, produce on the recruiting trail.
Demetrice Martin, cornerbacks coach, has been a pleasant revelation on this staff. He came to East Lansing with a proven record at Oregon, developing top-flight defensive back talent with the Ducks and building a solid pipeline from Eugene to the NFL.
Now, he has landed two top recruits in the Spartans' 2025 class -- LaRue Zamorano III and George Mullins. For 2026, Martin is going after some blue-chippers and a host of underrated gems that fit his prototype, such as Port Huron Northern's Amir Morelan.
Morelan has an athletic 6-foot-2 frame and is a physical ballplayer. He is also a leader with a lot of intangibles that click to the Spartans' liking. Morelan and Martin have built a solid relationship, from what the prospect told me. The Spartans are among his top teams and Martin is a big reason why.
"Him being real with me, always telling me what I need to do and what I need to get done to get to the next level," Morelan said of what stood out about Martin the most.
Morelan is also a big fan of Michigan State safeties coach Blue Adams, calling him "raw" and liking his coaching style. The Spartans at first offered Morelan a partial offer, which is not uncommon. They wanted to be sure about Morelan. After his midseason tape was released, the Spartans saw enough to pull the trigger.
"[Martin] had gotten back with me later at 4:30, 5 o'clock in the morning," Morelan said. "He said, 'Call or text me when you're up.' I called him, and he just told me that I had a full-ride scholarship, a home with the Spartans, if I wanted."
The Spartans want more depth at the defensive back position and this season, with all of the injuries, proves why that depth is so vital. Expect cornerback to be a heavily offered position in the 2026 class and expect Morelan to be near the top of the Spartans' list. That feeling is mutual, by the way.
Michael France is Sports Illustrated's Michigan State recruiting beat writer, covering all things Big Ten recruiting for Spartan Nation. Be sure to follow him on Twitter/X@michaelfrancesi for exclusive Spartans recruiting coverage.
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