Michigan State football, for years, has been known for it's stout defenses, particularly in the secondary. That's obvious for a program that once touted the 'No Fly Zone.' The last few years, the program didn't exactly live up to that reputation; however, safety Malik Spencer was a bright spot in the defensive backfield, starting 29 games between 2022 and 2025. Spencer went undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft and was quickly signed by the Washington Commanders. On Friday night, he made a strong case to make their full regular-season roster, picking off the Dolphins' backup quarterback Cam Miller.
You can watch the play here:
Malik Spencer continues his hot start with the Commanders.
— Emmett Matasovsky (@E_Matasovsky57) August 15, 2026
Also previously recorded the first interception of training camp.
Video: @NFLpic.twitter.com/3vcksh16IP
My hot take about Spencer is that if MSU's defense was a bit stronger around Spencer these last few years, he would've been selected in the NFL Draft. I think when you have as little pass rush as MSU has had these last few years, it really hurts the defensive backs. I can see Spencer having a nice career in the NFL and this should just be the beginning.
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This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: Former Michigan State safety snags interception in preseason game