Mississippi State got some good news on the transfer front Tuesday. A starting Bulldog defender who entered the portal has had a change of heart.

Corey Ellington has withdrawn his name from the portal without transferring, per 247Sports. Ellington seemingly confirmed the news by posting “recruitment closed.”

 

Ellington has played in 31 games for the Bulldogs over the past 3 seasons. He had a breakout season in 2023, recording 66 total tackles, including 4 for loss with 2 sacks, 2 pass breakups and 1 forced fumble over 12 games.

Ellington entered his name into the transfer portal earlier this month. This past weekend, he took a visit to Oregon.

New Mississippi State head coach Jeff Lebby quickly assembled his first coaching staff, presumably helping with Ellington’s decision to remain in Starkville. Ellington will be spending the most time with Matt Barnes and Coleman Hutzler.

Barnes arrives from Memphis, where he was defensive coordinator the past 2 seasons. At MSU, Barnes will hold the title of co-defensive coordinator and work with safeties.

Hutzler is MSU’s defensive coordinator. An Alabama assistant the past 2 seasons, Hutzler will also coach Bulldog linebackers.