It’s NFL Combine week, and if you’re surprised by that, it’s likely because Michigan State football didn’t send anyone to the event, except for placekicker Jonathan Kim.
The Spartans have struggled in recent seasons, but head coach Jonathan Smith is working to turn things around. The key to that lies in recruiting top talent, both through high school recruiting and the transfer portal. In fact, Kim himself came via the transfer portal.
Speaking of the transfer portal, a former Spartan who transferred to Oregon and was at the NFL Combine absolutely impressed, particularly with his 40-yard dash time.
Derrick Harmon, a 313-pound defensive lineman, posted one of the most remarkable 40-yard dash times of the day, running a 4.95 on his second attempt and 4.97 on his first. For a 313-pound lineman, breaking five seconds once is impressive, but doing it twice is truly extraordinary.
Harmon left Michigan State before the 2024 season in a move that stirred controversy, as he was already making significant NIL money and was one of the highest-paid players in the Big Ten. However, like Keon Coleman, he decided to pursue his football future by joining a national title contender in Oregon, where the team was ranked No. 1 for a significant part of the season.
While it’s been hard to see Harmon in another uniform, it’s great to watch the local talent shine at the combine and rise on draft boards.
Yet again, another “missed opportunity” for Michigan State football. Hopefully, this season will bring some legitimate NFL draft prospects and a more successful year.
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