Skip to main content
Michigan State

Michigan State DC Joe Rossi plans to play more LBs than ever

On3 imageby: Jim Comparoni08/27/25JimComparoni
Rossi screen

EAST LANSING, Mich. - Michigan State defensive coordinator Joe Rossi respectfully dodged some questions when speaking with media after practice on Tuesday.  Rossi was asked about Jonathan Smith’s comment that multiple defensive backs are likely to see the field on a regular basis this year, beginning on Friday in the season opener against Western Michigan. Rossi was asked if there are any defensive backs in particular that he is excited to see on the field. “There's the depth chart coming out of training camp, which we'll hold for ourselves,” Rossi said with a smile. “A lot of times you'll see a guy maybe raise his stock a little bit in a game or maybe drop a little bit. So, we'll evaluate those things. But we're going into it planning to play a lot of guys.” Rossi answered the question without naming one player. Coaches are careful about giving away scouting information, especially for a season opener when there are so many unknowns for a Michigan State team that hasn’t been in pads in public since November.  Further, Rossi was asked about candidates to fill in for Nikai Martinez, who is likely to miss Friday’s game with an undisclosed injury. Again, Rossi spoke in generalities, but mentioned no names.  “You probably saw what we did after spring - we brought in a bunch of guys in the safety world (from the transfer portal),” Rossi said. “So I feel like those guys have all come in. They've acclimated. They've got a lot of reps. We've rotated well throughout training camp from the beginning to the end, up until today. So I feel good about the depth.  “Our mission was to add depth in guys who played college football and have experience. And we've done that. So I'm pleased. There's guys that can go in the game and function and play really well for us.” What about linebackers? Rossi serves as Michigan State’s linebacker coach. Any chance for more specifics in that area? Not on the micro side. But in macro terms, Rossi offered a strong statement. (MORE inside SpartanMag).