Connor Heyward, son of ex-NFL player, commits to MSU

East Lansing — There hasn’t been much news on the recruiting front lately for Michigan State, but with Mark Dantonio and his staff out visiting prospects that changed on Thursday.

Connor Heyward, son of former NFL player Craig “Ironhead” Heyward, committed to the Spartans, announcing the news on Twitter.

“I first off want to thank all of the amazing universities and coaches who took the time to recruit me,” Heyward posted. “Without God none of this would be possible. Thanks to everyone who has supported me through this long stressful process, especially my family, teammates, coaches and teachers. With that being said I will be continuing my academic and football career at The Michigan State University.”

The native of Georgia is listed as a three-star athlete and checks in at 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds. He has played receiver and defensive back primarily in high school but also ran the ball for 261 yards and 10 touchdowns as a senior at Peachtree Ridge High School.

His father was an All-American running back at Pittsburgh before playing in the NFL for 11 seasons.

Heyward took an official visit to East Lansing last weekend and eventually chose Michigan State over Pittsburgh, giving Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio a recruiting victory over former MSU defensive coordinator and current Pittsburgh head coach Pat Narduzzi.

Michigan State now has 17 players committed to the 2017 class.

mcharboneau@detroitnews.com

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