Chiles Leaves East Lansing in Midst of MSU’s Rebuild
Michigan State quarterback Aiden Chiles has decided to enter the transfer portal. Chiles makes his decision as MSU is undergoing a regime change.
The sophomore signal-caller is hitting the road for the second time in his college career, adding his name to what’s already shaping up to be an absolutely loaded quarterback market this winter. With Jonathan Smith’s future in East Lansing suddenly uncertain, Chiles isn’t sticking around to see how this whole thing shakes out.
Here’s what makes this interesting: Chiles originally followed Smith from Oregon State to Michigan State. The kid was a true freshman with the Beavers in 2023, rotating in and out before making the move to the Big Ten. Over the past two seasons in Spartan green, he’s been the guy under center, starting in 21 of the 30 games he’s played between Corvallis and East Lansing.
The Numbers Tell a Mixed Story
Chiles put up decent production during his time with the Spartans. Through three seasons split between two programs, he’s thrown for 4,116 yards and 27 touchdowns. But he’s also got 14 picks on his resume, though it’s worth noting that only three of those came last season when he was much more careful with the football—just three interceptions on 203 attempts.
What really stands out is his dual-threat ability. The dude can run. He’s racked up 531 yards and 12 rushing touchdowns, proving he’s dangerous when things break down and he’s forced to improvise.
His best performance of the 2025 season came against Indiana, where he absolutely carved up the Hoosiers. Chiles completed 27 of 33 passes for 243 yards and a touchdown, while also leading Michigan State in rushing with 48 yards. That’s the kind of complete game that had scouts circling his name.
What’s Next for Chiles?
Chiles has one year of eligibility left, which means he’s got one more shot to prove himself at the highest level. His combination of arm talent and mobility should attract plenty of suitors looking for an experienced quarterback who can make plays both in the pocket and on the move.
The transfer portal has become the new normal in college football, and experienced quarterbacks like Chiles are exactly what programs hunting for immediate upgrades are looking for. He’s played in big games, dealt with pressure, and shown flashes of being a legitimate difference-maker.
Expect the big programs to come calling. Chiles has the tape, the experience, and the athleticism that offensive coordinators dream about. Somewhere out there, there’s a team that needs exactly what he brings to the table.
