Pat Fitzgerald’s inaugural month as the head coach of Michigan State has been marked by significant developments, particularly in assembling a strong coaching staff. One of his most crucial moves was the hiring of Nick Sheridan, former quarterbacks coach at Alabama, as the Spartans’ new offensive coordinator. This addition is seen as a game-changer for the program, bringing in not only a brilliant offensive strategist but also an adept recruiter, especially in securing top-tier quarterback talent.
Sheridan’s previous experience at Alabama, where he played a pivotal role in pursuing five-star quarterback Elijah Haven from The Dunham School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, positions him advantageously within the competitive recruiting landscape. Despite the challenges of attracting elite prospects to East Lansing compared to the allure of Tuscaloosa, Sheridan’s connections and expertise could play a significant part in piquing the interest of top recruits, including Haven.
Haven is currently ranked as the No. 1 quarterback and holds the No. 14 overall position in the 2027 class, according to Rivals’ Industry rankings. Although Michigan State has yet to make an impression on him, the change in coaching dynamics could potentially open new avenues. Haven’s father, Kwame, indicated that Sheridan was a key figure during his son’s time at Alabama, fostering a close relationship that might translate well into recruitment at Michigan State.
While Haven has not expressed particular interest in the Spartans at this time, his father’s comments suggest that the recruitment process is still very much open. This gives the Spartans a valuable opportunity to engage with the talented quarterback as they look to enhance their roster. Although it remains a challenging endeavor, Sheridan’s presence on the coaching staff could significantly bolster Michigan State’s chances in the upcoming recruiting battles, particularly as they aim to contend for the top quarterback in the 2027 class.
In the broader context of college football recruiting, this development signifies Michigan State’s commitment to elevating their program and the strategic moves required to compete at a higher level. With Fitzgerald at the helm and Sheridan on board, there is reason for optimism among Spartans fans regarding the future of their football program and the potential for attracting elite talent.