Michigan State University (MSU) football is on the cusp of securing a commitment from one of the most sought-after prospects in the 2026 recruiting class, linebacker Jacob Savage. The Spartans are excited about the potential that Savage brings to the table, as they’ve already envisioned him playing a significant role at the Mike/Will linebacker position. Savage’s combination of physicality, athleticism, and sideline-to-sideline range has caught the attention of the MSU coaching staff, and they are eager to bring him into their fold.
Savage is a dynamic player with a relentless work ethic and a natural ability to cover ground on the field. His physicality is one of the first things that stands out when watching him play. He isn’t just a tackler; he’s a player who brings intensity and force to every hit. This kind of playstyle is highly desirable at the linebacker position, where a player’s ability to engage with offensive players while maintaining control is crucial.
Beyond his physical play, Savage’s sideline-to-sideline range gives him the versatility needed to thrive in multiple roles within a defense. Whether he’s rushing the quarterback, covering running backs in the flat, or dropping into pass coverage, Savage has the agility and speed to be effective in a variety of situations. This range is a key reason why MSU coaches have already projected him as a key figure in their defensive scheme, likely taking on the dual role of Mike/Will linebacker.
In a defense, the Mike (middle) and Will (weakside) linebacker positions are vital for both pass and run defense. The Mike linebacker is typically the leader of the defense, responsible for reading the offense and making adjustments on the fly. The Will linebacker, on the other hand, is tasked with covering the weak side of the field, often dealing with coverage responsibilities, such as guarding running backs or tight ends. Savage’s ability to excel in both areas makes him a perfect fit for these positions.
Jacob Savage’s work ethic and football IQ are also part of what has drawn MSU’s attention. A player with a high football IQ is always looking for ways to improve, and that’s exactly what Savage has shown thus far in his development. He is already adept at reading the offensive line’s movements, reacting quickly to plays, and using his physicality to his advantage. His maturity and understanding of the game will only improve as he continues to develop through his high school career, which makes him an even more exciting prospect for MSU.
MSU football is no stranger to developing linebackers who can make a significant impact on the field. With their history of producing strong, versatile players at this position, the Spartans are confident that Savage could eventually follow in those footsteps and become a standout defensive player in the Big Ten and beyond. The potential for Jacob Savage to contribute right away, or grow into a dominant linebacker over time, is something the MSU coaching staff is eagerly anticipating.
As MSU continues to recruit and build for the future, adding a player like Jacob Savage would be a major step toward strengthening their defense. His physicality, intelligence, and range make him an ideal fit for the Spartans’ defensive scheme, and his commitment would represent a significant win for the program in the highly competitive recruiting world.
