Malik McDowell Signs LOI with MSU After Long, Controversial Recruitment

Almost two months after National Signing Day, it appears Michigan State's prized football recruit is officially on board.

Malik McDowell, a 5-star defensive end from Southfield, announced in a tweet Wednesday morning that his official letter of intent was signed and delivered to MSU before Tuesday's deadline. This came after his mother refused to sign off on his recruitment to MSU, which prevented his signing from becoming official, on grounds she didn't want him going to college in East Lansing.

The 6-foot-7, 290-pound McDowell was rated as the top recruit in Michigan by many, and also ranked among the best in the country. He chose Michigan State over the likes of Alabama, Florida, Michigan and Ohio State.

It remains unclear whether McDowell's mother came around and signed off on his recruitment to MSU.