Mel Tucker continues to assemble a recruiting class within state borders.

Michigan State added to its 2021 class on Friday, landing a verbal pledge from three-star strong-side defensive end Tyson Watson. The 6-foot-6, 270-pound defensive end is a native of Warren, Michigan and becomes the fourth in-state player to join the Spartans’ class.

Watson made his announcement with a post on Twitter on Friday. He’s the fifth commitment of the 2021 cycle for Tucker and his staff.

Watson is currently the highest-rated prospect to commit to Michigan State’s class. According to 247Sports, the defensive end ranks inside the top 40 at his position and is the No. 16 player from the state of Michigan. Overall, he’s one of the top 600 players in the class.

Michigan State beat Minnesota, Purdue, Syracuse, Tennessee, Indiana, Iowa and Maryland for Watson’s commitment.

Over the last two weeks, Michigan State has become more prominent on the recruiting trail. While it took Tucker some time to land his first commitment, he’s been able to land five recruits in the month of April.

MSU’s class currently ranks 10th in the B1G and 35th nationally.