Michigan State is adding depth to its defensive back unit through the transfer portal.

Wednesday, the Spartans landed a pledge from former Division II defensive back Kaleb Elam. He spent three seasons at Davenport University where he excelled on the field.

Elam announced his decision with a lengthy post on Twitter entitled, “Next Chapter.” Because of a redshirt year and the COVID-19 waiver from the NCAA, the defensive back will still have three seasons of eligibility at Michigan State.

During the 2021 season, Elam totaled 35 tackles, 2 pass break-ups and a fumble recovery. A year earlier, during a pandemic-reduced 2020 campaign, the defensive back had 7 stops with a pass break-up and an interception and 2 games.

Over the course of his three seasons at Davenport, Elam was credited with 45 tackles, 3 pass break-ups, 2 fumble recoveries and a pick.

The 6-foot-1, 195-pound Elam will be transferring a little closer to home. A Lansing native, the Spartans’ new defensive back played high school football at East Lansing.

Michigan State is coming off an 11-2 year in 2021 but struggled with pass defense, ranking last in the country. Adding more depth to the secondary is certainly helpful for Mel Tucker and his staff heading into 2022.