Michigan State gets a transfer portal commitment from Maine DB Devin Vaught
Pat Fitzgerald is adding a safety from the FCS level. Lean more about Vaught here.
Michigan State is bolstering its defensive backfield with the addition of Maine defensive back Devin Vaught, who has announced his commitment to the Spartans on Instagram after emerging as a top defensive playmaker at the FCS level. He will play under newly-hired head coach Pat Fitzgerald.
Vaught took a visit to East Lansing on Saturday, Jan. 4. He will not take any additional visits. Vaught will have two years of eligibility remaining.
The 6-foot, 205-pound safety arrives to MSU with a reputation for production, physicality, and a nose for the football. Vaught comes to Michigan State following a breakout season in 2025 in which he quickly established himself as a centerpiece of the Maine defense. He recorded 60 tackles, one tackle for loss, three interceptions, eight passes defended and a defensive touchdown.
According to Pro Football Focus, Vaught played 708 defensive snaps for the Black Bears in 2025, with the majority of those coming at the free safety position (248). He recorded an overall defensive grade of 70.6. Vaught also played 130 snaps on special teams.
Appearing in 11 games in 2024, Vaught totaled 43 tackles (1.5 tackles for loss), and tied for the team lead with three interceptions, while turning two of those picks into touchdowns. He also tallied six pass break-ups. He appeared in three games in 2023 and took a redshirt.
Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, Vaught played his high school football at Mallard Creek, a program well known for producing high-level college talent. That background shows up on film. He plays with confidence in space, closes quickly downhill, and isn’t afraid to deliver a physical hit in run support. At the same time, his awareness in coverage allows him to read quarterbacks and jump passing lanes — traits that translate well to the Big Ten.
For Michigan State, Vaught represents more than just depth. He arrives with college experience and immediate impact potential in a secondary looking to add consistency and takeaways. His versatility allows him to perimarily line up at safety or to rotate into nickel packages, giving the Spartans flexibility as they shape their defensive identity under Fitzgerald, defensive coordinator Joe Rossi and safeties coach James Adams.
Vaught’s commitment signals Michigan State’s emphasis on finding proven production in the transfer market — players who have already shown they can perform on Saturdays. With his blend of size, athleticism and playmaking ability, Vaught has the tools to compete for early snaps and push the Spartan defense.
As he prepares to make the jump to the FBS level in the Big Ten, Vaught's transition will be interesting to monitor. But if his track record is any indication, Vaught is ready for the challenge — and Spartan fans don’t have to wait long to see him make his presence felt in East Lansing.