2026 in-state DB Darelle Cochran commits to Michigan State as PWO
The Spartans add a preferred walk-on defensive back from Ferndale. More on Cochran here.
As Michigan State looks to finalize its roster for the upcoming season, the Spartans have earned a preferred walk-on (PWO) commitment from 2026 in-state defensive back Darelle Cochran.
MSU officially announced the addition of Cochran on Wednesday.
Cochran reported a PWO offer from the Spartans on Jan. 30. He took a visit to East Lansing the following day on Jan. 31.
“I give all glory to God," Cochran told Spartans Illustrated. "Without him, and the discipline and principles my mother instilled in me, I would not be here. I’m excited to continue my journey with the Spartan family.”
He will most likely play cornerback for MSU.
As a member of the Spartans, Cochran will learn under head coach Pat Fitzgerald, defensive coordinator Joe Rossi, cornerbacks coach Hank Poteat, safeties coach James Adams and the rest of the newly-hired Michigan State staff.
Cochran, who currently attends Ferndale High School, is also a standout basketball player as a shooting guard and small forward. He had opportunities to play basketball at Western Michigan, Olivet and Trine University. He also had the option to join the football program at Northern Illinois.
While Cochran took some time to debate whether he wanted to play football or basketball at the college level, he ultimately felt the opportunity with the MSU football program was best for his future.
The 6-foot-4, 175-pound Cochran has impressive athletic traits, as he has recorded a vertical jump of 42 inches.
Cochran will arrive in East Lansing this summer and compete as a member MSU's 2026 roster.
