Former Oregon State quarterback Aidan Chiles has announced his transfer to Michigan State, reuniting with coach Jonathan Smith.
Chiles, originally from Southern California, visited Michigan State recently and opted to commit to Smith, under whom he played during a promising 2023 season at Oregon State.
“He’s one of the X-Men, he’s got these mutant genes because he has healed extremely quickly, and he’s gotten his strength back. It is secure,” Campbell said. “So, yeah, he’s going to be ready to go here pretty soon.”
Chiles, who is immediately eligible and has three years of eligibility remaining, will enroll in January, providing an immediate offensive anchor for Smith’s tenure at Michigan State. His decision also gives Smith a foundational player to recruit around.
“I talked to Coach Smith, and at the end of the day, I told him, ‘I came to play for you,'” Chiles told. “‘Wherever you go, that’s where I want to be.'”
At Oregon State, Chiles showed dual-threat ability, playing well as a true freshman despite not starting any games this season. He impressed with four touchdown passes, three rushing touchdowns, and a 68.6% completion rate without throwing an interception in 35 attempts.
Chiles highlighted his comfort with Smith and the coaching staff, familiarity with the offensive system, and the opportunity presented by the Big Ten as key factors in his decision.
Aiden Chiles (Credits: Tim Healy)
The move to Michigan State not only reconnects Chiles with Smith and offensive coordinator Brian Lindgren but also places him in a system tailored to his strengths. Chiles expressed enthusiasm about the pro-style offense’s adaptability and his potential to contribute as a mobile quarterback.
Reflecting on his visit to East Lansing, Chiles acknowledged the transition from Oregon State to Michigan State, noting the appeal of a larger city with a vibrant college town atmosphere.
“The system is a quarterback-driven system, everyone rallies around the quarterback and trusts in him to make plays for the offense,” Chiles said. “I feel like I can make plays when needed to.”
Looking ahead, Chiles sees Michigan State as an opportunity to embrace the underdog role, similar to his experience at Oregon State, and aims to help bring up the Spartans to Big Ten contention.
“I did the same thing at Oregon State when I committed there,” he said. “There’s not too much to it. At the end of the day, if the players want to play with you, they’re going to come.”
Chiles looks forward to contributing both on and off the field, already positioning himself as a recruiter for Michigan State as the team looks to build its roster for the future.
