Michigan State Football Sees Notable Weight Changes in 2022 Roster – Big Drops and Gains

Michigan State Football Sees Notable Weight Changes in 2022 Roster – Big Drops and Gains

Michigan State University’s football team has undergone significant changes in the weight department for the upcoming 2022 season. The team’s newly released roster reveals some impressive weight losses and gains among its players, reflecting their commitment to physical transformation and improved performance on the field.

One standout player this season is offensive lineman Kristian Phillips, who arrived in East Lansing last summer weighing a hefty 360 pounds. However, after a year of hard work and dedication, he has managed to shed a considerable amount of weight. Phillips now weighs 305 pounds, a remarkable achievement that has put him in the running for a starting position at guard during fall camp. Coach Chris Kapilovic praised Phillips for his determination and credited the nutritionists and strength coaches for supporting his progress.

But Phillips isn’t the only player who has undergone a notable transformation. Defensive ends Jalen Thompson and Andrew Depaepe, both four-star recruits who signed with the 2023 recruiting class in December, have made substantial weight gains. Thompson now weighs 260 pounds, an increase of 25 pounds since he signed with the team, while Depaepe has bulked up by 20 pounds to reach 255 pounds.

Other players who have seen significant weight changes include linebacker Aaron Alexander and kicker Stephen Rusnak, who have both put on 20 pounds. Alexander, a transfer addition from UMass, and Rusnak, who is vying for the starting kicker position, have focused on enhancing their strength and physicality.

Defensive end Ken Talley, tight end Brennan Parachek, and kicker Jonathan Kim have all gained 15 pounds, showcasing their commitment to improving their performance on the field. Talley’s transfer from Penn State made him ineligible to play last season, while Parachek joined the team as an early enrollee and Kim transferred from North Carolina.

On the other hand, a few players have experienced slight weight loss. Offensive lineman Keyshawn Blackstock, running back Jaelon Barbarin, and cornerback Marqui Lowery have all shed five pounds, indicating their efforts to enhance their agility and speed.

One player worth noting is Harold Joiner, who has shifted positions multiple times during his tenure at Michigan State. Joiner, previously a running back, has now been officially listed as a linebacker and has dropped five pounds. He transferred from Auburn and hopes to make a significant impact in his new role.

Although weight changes are just one aspect of a player’s performance, they can have a significant impact on their agility, speed, and overall effectiveness on the field. Michigan State’s players and coaching staff have embraced the challenge of physical transformation, working alongside nutritionists and strength coaches to optimize each player’s potential.

As the 2022 season approaches, these weight changes reflect the dedication and commitment of the Michigan State football team to elevate their performance on the field. By prioritizing physical fitness and strength training, the Spartans hope to make a formidable impact in the competitive world of college football.