Michigan State University is making a strong push to flip three-star cornerback Jaxson Gates from his commitment to Syracuse. Gates, a talented defensive back from Damien High School in La Verne, California, originally pledged to the Orange in November 2024. However, recent interest from Michigan State and other programs has led him to reassess his options ahead of his senior season.
Gates recently took an unofficial visit to East Lansing, where he got a firsthand look at Michigan State’s football facilities, culture, and coaching staff. During his visit, he observed a spring practice, toured Spartan Stadium, and engaged in one-on-one discussions with head coach Jonathan Smith and defensive backs coach Blue Adams. The visit provided Gates with insight into the Spartans’ vision for his role in their defense and the program’s long-standing tradition of producing elite defensive talent.
Following his visit, Gates expressed appreciation for Michigan State’s football heritage and the emphasis the coaching staff places on player development. He highlighted the legacy of the “Spartan Dawgs,” a term used to describe the school’s top defensive players, as an appealing aspect of the program. While still committed to Syracuse, Gates is keeping his recruitment process open, with plans to take an official visit to Michigan State later in the spring or early summer.
Michigan State’s aggressive pursuit of Gates reflects its ongoing efforts to strengthen its secondary for the coming years. The Spartans have been actively recruiting top defensive backs to solidify their pass defense, and Gates fits the mold of the physical, athletic cornerbacks they seek. At 6-foot-1 and 180 pounds, Gates possesses the speed, technique, and versatility to thrive in both man and zone coverage schemes.
Despite the Spartans’ interest, Syracuse remains confident in retaining Gates. The Orange have built a strong relationship with him since his initial recruitment, and head coach Fran Brown is working to reaffirm his commitment. Still, with programs like Michigan State continuing to make a push, Gates’ recruitment could remain fluid in the coming months.
As the summer approaches, Gates’ decision will be one to watch closely. Whether he sticks with Syracuse or flips to Michigan State, his choice will have implications for both programs’ defensive outlooks. With official visits still ahead, the battle for Jaxson Gates is far from over, making him one of the most intriguing cornerback prospects in the 2025 recruiting cycle.
