Michigan State Lands Former Cass Tech WR as Transfer

Jameel Gardner Jr. joins Spartans football program after standout high school career.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:46am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a football player in mid-stride, broken down into overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a palette of green, orange, and navy, conceptually representing the dynamic energy of a new player joining a team.The transfer of Jameel Gardner Jr. to Michigan State's football program adds a dynamic playmaker to the Spartans' offense.East Lansing Today

Michigan State University has added former Cass Tech High School wide receiver Jameel Gardner Jr. to its football roster as a transfer. Gardner, a highly touted recruit, will look to make an immediate impact on the Spartans' offense after a standout high school career.

Why it matters

The addition of Gardner, a local Detroit product, is a significant recruiting win for Michigan State as they aim to rebuild their receiving corps and compete in the Big Ten conference. Cass Tech has long been a pipeline for top talent in the Detroit area, making Gardner's transfer a notable acquisition for the Spartans.

The details

Gardner, a 6'2" wide receiver, was a standout player at Cass Tech High School in Detroit, where he was a two-time All-State selection and helped lead his team to the state playoffs. He chose to transfer to Michigan State after spending his first two collegiate seasons at another program.

  • Gardner announced his transfer to Michigan State on April 19, 2026.
  • He will join the Spartans for the upcoming 2026 season.

The players

Jameel Gardner Jr.

A former wide receiver at Cass Tech High School in Detroit who has transferred to play for Michigan State University.

Pat Fitzgerald

The head coach of the Michigan State University football team.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to welcome Jameel to our program. He's a talented player who will add depth and playmaking ability to our receiving corps.”

— Pat Fitzgerald, Head Coach, Michigan State University

What’s next

Gardner will begin practicing with the Michigan State team this summer and is expected to compete for a starting role in the Spartans' offense during the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The addition of Jameel Gardner Jr., a local Detroit product, is a significant recruiting win for Michigan State as they look to rebuild their receiving corps and compete in the Big Ten conference. His transfer from Cass Tech High School, a pipeline for top talent in the area, further strengthens the Spartans' ties to the Detroit football community.