DB Michael Richard Drawn to MSU's 'Family' Atmosphere

The care of the coaching staff was a big reason the Louisiana Tech transfer chose to play for the Spartans.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 2:10pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a defensive player in motion, with sharp planes of green, white, and gold representing the colors of Michigan State University's football team.A cubist interpretation of a Michigan State defensive back making a play, reflecting the program's 'Spartan tough' mentality.East Lansing Today

Defensive back Michael Richard, a transfer from Louisiana Tech, cited the family-like atmosphere and care shown by the Michigan State coaching staff as key factors in his decision to join the Spartans. Richard, who was the Conference USA Freshman of the Year in 2023, said the staff's concern for his own family members during a visit sealed the deal for him to make the move from Louisiana to East Lansing.

Why it matters

Recruiting talented transfers is crucial for Power Five programs like Michigan State to remain competitive. Richard's decision to join the Spartans highlights the importance of building a strong culture and showing genuine care for players and their families, which can be a differentiating factor in attracting top talent.

The details

Richard, who played safety at Louisiana Tech, said he will likely play a versatile nickel role in Michigan State's defense under coordinator Joe Rossi. He was impressed by the Spartans' 'Spartan tough' mentality and the rivalries the program embraces during his campus visit.

  • Richard was the Conference USA Freshman of the Year in 2023.
  • Richard transferred to Michigan State in 2026 for his final year of eligibility.

The players

Michael Richard

A defensive back who transferred from Louisiana Tech to Michigan State for his final year of eligibility.

James Adams

The safeties coach at Michigan State who played a key role in recruiting Richard.

Joe Rossi

The defensive coordinator at Michigan State who oversees the Spartans' defensive scheme.

Pat Fitzgerald

The head coach of the Michigan State football team.

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What they’re saying

“It was never about football, especially with Coach [James] Adams. They were strictly asking how I'm doing as a person, how I'm doing, just with this whole process, basically making a life-changing decision.”

— Michael Richard, Defensive Back

“They were making sure she was hydrated; they were making sure if she needed meds... So just for them to take care of them too, it kind of showed me, it's not just about ball, it's about family.”

— Michael Richard, Defensive Back

“Just hearing the conversation about just having the rivalries, the respect you have for wearing the Spartan green, and just having that mindset of 'Spartan tough,' like, just being on the field. It's like, 'OK, this is something I want to be a part of.'”

— Michael Richard, Defensive Back

What’s next

Richard will look to make an immediate impact in Michigan State's secondary this season as he aims to cap off his college career with a strong final year.

The takeaway

Michigan State's ability to foster a tight-knit, family-like culture and show genuine care for its players and their families proved to be a key differentiator in landing the talented transfer Michael Richard, highlighting the importance of building strong relationships in the modern era of college football recruiting.