Rooted in Detroit, Rising in East Lansing: Jalen Thompson’s journey of purpose, leadership, and growth

For Michigan State’s Jalen Thompson, the story of his rise on the field cannot be told without first understanding where it began – on the streets of Detroit, where challenges are real, stakes are high, and purpose is often shaped early.

Last year, Thompson organized two powerful community initiatives: an anti-gun violence and mental health camp, and a special program for children of police officers. The effort wasn’t for headlines or attention – it was personal.

“Being from Detroit, gun violence is a big issue,” he said. “I’ve seen people lose their lives, and I just want to educate youth on what’s right and wrong with guns.”

Giving back to the community that shaped him is not just something he does in the offseason – it’s a core part of who he is. But when it’s time to return to East Lansing, that same drive fuels his performance on the field.

“You have to be where you’re from but also keep the right circle to stay safe,” Thompson said. “It’s the same thing here (in East Lansing). You need to be around the right people – teammates, coaches – to succeed.”

That understanding of environment and influence has become one of his guiding principles. Whether navigating Detroit’s streets or Spartan Stadium, the company you keep matters.

And so does the mindset you bring.

Now a seasoned upperclassman, he often reflects on his early days – specifically his time as a senior at Cass Tech, one of Detroit’s football powerhouses. If he could talk to that version of himself – the young player preparing for his first fall in East Lansing – his message would be simple but powerful:

“Just stay on path. Stick to what you know. Play fast and play ball. It’s been working for you.”

Three years in, the transition from wide-eyed freshman to seasoned veteran is clear – not just in words, but in presence. With more experience and understanding of what it takes to compete at a high level, he approaches this season differently.

“You know the road now,” he said. “You know what it takes. It’s not just about playing; it’s about putting it all together.”

Putting it together includes addressing team-wide goals – like improving a pass rush that underwhelmed the year before. For him and the defense, that shortcoming became personal.

“We all felt like that was somewhere we needed to pick up,” he said. “We’ve been honing in and working to get better.”

This year feels different, and not just because of what’s happening on the field. It’s about culture – what’s happening in the locker room, the meeting rooms, and even off campus.

The team feels tighter, more unified.

“We’re together this year,” Thompson said. “Offense and defense are hanging out. We’re spending time with coaches. This is our second year in the same scheme, so now we’re refining the details.”

That continuity is paying off in real time. In a defense that’s known for its complexity, players are thinking less and reacting more. They’re playing faster, smarter, and with more trust in each other.

Part of his evolution has also been physical. Contrary to what some observers might have guessed, he’s not slimmed down – he’s bulked up.

“I think from spring, I’ve gained weight,” he noted. “I was probably like 255. I’m in like 260, 265 now.”

The decision was intentional, driven by a vision beyond college football.

“If I want to make it to the next level, having more weight will help me later on down the road,” he said.

Alongside that physical transformation, his confidence has never been higher.

“I know what I need to do,” he said. “I know right from wrong. Now it’s about cutting it loose and playing ball.”

And unlike last season – where injuries tested the limits of the roster – the team now feels prepared to weather any storm.

“Our one, two, and three deep guys can all play,” he said. “You don’t see a difference.”

Even with new additions in the pass-rush group, the talent and readiness are clear.

“All our rushers are great,” he said. “They each bring their own strengths. The depth we have at different positions is a real asset.”

From the streets of Detroit to the turf of Spartan Stadium, Thompson’s journey is defined not just by stats or plays, but by leadership, reflection, and a desire to make a difference.

Whether it’s running a youth camp to fight gun violence or running down quarterbacks on Saturday afternoons, he knows exactly who he is – and where he’s going.

Rooted in Detroit.

Rising in East Lansing.

And leading by example every step of the way.