2026 three-star DT Christopher Knauls Jr. decommits from Michigan State

Class of 2026 three-star defensive tackle Christopher Knauls Jr. announced that he is backing off his pledge to Michigan State. He took to social media on Tuesday to say he is decommitting from the Spartans.

Knauls previously posted that he intended to sign with the Spartans when the early signing period opened on Wednesday, Dec. 3.

Sources tell Spartans Illustrated that this is a "mutual parting" between Michigan State and Knauls. MSU fired previous head coach Jonathan Smith on Sunday, Nov. 30. The next day, MSU quickly named Pat Fitzgerald as its new head coach on Dec. 1.

"After careful consideration! I will not be (signing) early tomorrow to Michigan State," Knauls said on social media. "I will be decommitting and reopening my recruitment 100%. Thank you."

Knauls originally committed to Smith, defensive line coach Legi Suiaunoa and the Spartans on June 8, following his official visit to East Lansing.

The Lone Star High School (Frisco, Texas) defensive lineman ranks as the No. 1,414 prospect overall, No. 137 defensive lineman and No. 204 player in the state of Texas in the Rivals Industry ranking. Meanwhile, he ranks as the No. 1,446 overall recruit, No. 154 player at his position and No. 210 player in Texas in the 247Sports Composite rankings.

In addition to Michigan State, Knauls has received scholarship offers from Oklahoma State, Texas Tech, Indiana, California, Colorado, Houston, Kansas, Kansas State, Syracuse, Utah, Boise State, Tulane, Tulsa, UNLV and others.

Other prospects who have recently decommitted from Michigan State include four-star wide receiver Tyren Wortham, four-star linebacker Braylon Hodge, three-star offensive lineman Quinn Buckey and three-star safety Jordan Vann.

With the early signing period opening on Wednesday, Michigan State currently has 19 scholarship players and three preferred walk-ons committed.