Mississippi State landed a big body to fit in the middle of its defense.

Former Purdue defensive tackle Sulaiman Kpaka spent 4 years in West Lafayette and has two years of eligibility remaining should he use a COVID year. The Grand Prairie, Texas native played sparingly in 2020 and redshirted in 2021. But the last 2 seasons, Kpaka appeared in 19 games and made 28 tackles and 2.5 sacks.

“I had an absolutely great visit to Mississippi State,” Kpaka told Gene’s Page. “De’Monte Russell was my host and he is a fabulous guy. I have a lot of respect for the guy and the amount of football that he’s played in the SEC. He’s a leader and I know that guy is going to have a big year next year. I think I am going to enjoy playing with him. He’s the kind of guy you want to play with.”

Kpaka is the latest addition in a busy stretch for the Bulldogs.

They earned commitments from several players in the portal. Guard Makylan Pounders, wide receiver Kelly Akharaiyi, and defensive back Tre Wright announced their commitments to the Bulldogs on Sunday. The team has also added quarterback Blake Shapen, offensive lineman Ethan Miner, and defensive lineman Kedrick Bingley-Jones via the portal this offseason.