Daniel Barker decided to leave Illinois at the end of the 2021 season but he’s staying in the B1G. The former Fighting Illini tight end is simply changing divisions.

Monday, Barker announced on Twitter that he has committed to Michigan State. He spent four seasons in Champaign before deciding to enter his name into the NCAA transfer portal.

Barker initially declared for the 2022 NFL Draft. However, before the deadline, the tight end withdrew his name and decided to put his name in the portal instead. He will have one season of eligibility to use with the Spartans.

The addition of Barker is the latest win for Mel Tucker via the transfer portal. Barker brings great experience to East Lansing and can have an immediate impact for a program that finished the 2021 season with an 11-2 record.

Last year, Barker totaled 202 yards and 4 touchdowns on 18 receptions for the Fighting Illini. His most dominant performance came in a loss to UTSA, catching 5 passes for 74 yards and 2 touchdowns.

Barker proved to be a solid pass catcher out of the tight end position during his time at Illinois. He appeared in 44 career games over the last four seasons and hauled in 64 catches for 827 yards and 11 touchdowns.