The Sun Devils have also bolstered their defensive line by bringing in former EDGE rusher Jalen Thompson, who signed with ASU in 2026. The veteran transfer comes to Tempe, having had three interesting years at Michigan State, and he will exhaust his last year of eligibility at ASU.
Jalen Thompson has signed with the Arizona State Sun Devils. pic.twitter.com/3MgFQwPcS5
— Sun Devil Football (@ASUFootball) January 14, 2026
Successful Michigan State Productivity
Thompson was a dependable player for the Spartans, as he started 26 of the 31 games that he played. In 2025, he became one of the most dependable defenders in Michigan State and made 30 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks. He was able to contribute in the backfield by disrupting plays, as in the case of the number of tackles lost by the team.
Thompson recorded 66 total tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and one forced fumble over his career at Michigan State. His consistency and experience in a Power Five program are what will make him a valuable addition to the defense at Arizona State.
Highly Regarded Recruit and Competitive Recruitment
Thompson left high school as a four-star prospect and received attention from some of the largest programs, such as West Virginia, Mississippi State, Rutgers, and Notre Dame. It was Arizona State that finally scored in the recruitment, getting a player with a pedigree and experience in college.
Thompson is a 6-foot-3, 260-pound player who is reputed to be strong, disciplined, and technical at the EDGE. He is particularly effective against the run and brings a strong physical presence that should help solidify Arizona State’s defensive line.
The arrival of Thompson makes the Sun Devils more experienced with a defender who can make an immediate impact in the 2026 season.