Miami transfer cornerback Charles Brantley has officially committed to Michigan State, as reported by On3’s Pete Nakos. This move marks a return to East Lansing for Brantley, who played four seasons for the Spartans from 2021 to 2024 before transferring to Miami last offseason.
During his brief stint with the Hurricanes, Brantley participated in only three games, which allows him to redshirt this season while recording one tackle. His time with Michigan State is more substantial, where he played in 31 games and started 24, accumulating 103 tackles (including 4.5 for loss), five interceptions—with two of those returned for touchdowns—18 passes defended, and one sack.
Originally a three-star recruit from Venice High School in Florida, Brantley was ranked as the No. 83 overall high school prospect in the state and the 57th cornerback in his class according to the Rivals Industry Ranking.
Brantley’s commitment is a significant addition for Michigan State, marking him as the 13th player acquired through the transfer portal this cycle and the third cornerback, alongside Tre Bell and Tyran Chappell. The Spartans have also seen 32 players depart through the portal, highlighting a significant turnover within the team.
Coming off a disappointing 4-8 season that saw them miss bowl game eligibility for the fourth consecutive year, Michigan State is looking to improve its fortunes in the upcoming 2026 season. The coaching staff hopes that reintroducing Brantley, along with other strategic transfer portal acquisitions, will help turn the team’s performance around.
In a related note, it’s important for fans to stay updated on transfers, as the next transfer portal window will open from January 2 to January 16, 2026. This revised NCAA policy eliminates the spring transfer window, allowing athletes one opportunity to enter the portal following the conclusion of the season. Schools are expected to benefit from keeping their complete rosters intact until this designated window opens, intended to smoothen transitions in the collegiate football landscape.