BREAKING: MSU Linebacker Wayne Matthews III Caught in Shocking Campus Incident Just Days Before Season Opener
EAST LANSING, Mich. — August 5, 2025
In a stunning twist that has left Michigan State’s football community reeling, senior linebacker Wayne Matthews III is at the center of an alleged late-night incident on campus that could jeopardize his upcoming season—and possibly more.
According to multiple sources with knowledge of the situation, Matthews was involved in what one eyewitness described as a “heated confrontation” near the campus athletic facility late Monday night. The altercation reportedly began after a verbal exchange between Matthews and a fellow student escalated into something more physical. No official charges have been filed at this time, but MSU campus police confirmed that they responded to a disturbance involving “a student-athlete of high profile.”
Matthews, widely regarded as the heart and soul of Michigan State’s defense, was expected to serve as a team captain this fall. After leading the Spartans in tackles last season and being named to several preseason watch lists for national awards, this development has shocked teammates and coaches alike.
“This is completely out of character for Wayne,” one anonymous team source said. “He’s intense on the field, but off it? He’s usually one of the calmest guys in the locker room.”
Head coach Jonathan Smith issued a brief statement Tuesday morning:
> “We are aware of the incident involving Wayne Matthews III and are in the process of gathering all the facts. Until then, he will be withheld from all team activities. Our focus remains on preparing for the season opener and ensuring our players are held to the highest standards both on and off the field.”
Social media erupted overnight with speculation, with some claiming the confrontation was linked to a dispute over an NIL deal, while others suggested personal matters may have been involved. Regardless, the timing couldn’t be worse for a Spartans program hoping to rebound from a turbulent 2024 campaign.
Matthews has yet to make a public statement, though sources close to the linebacker say he is “cooperating fully” with university officials and remains hopeful that the situation can be resolved quickly.
With just 18 days left before the season opener against Cincinnati, Michigan State now faces uncertainty at a critical position on the field—and a massive leadership vacuum in the locker room.
Stay tuned as this story continues to develop.
