One of the top offensive tackle recruits in the nation for the class of 2017 is Bradenton (Fla.) IMG Academy’s Robert Hainsey. The 6-foot-5, 272-pound prospect is a Rivals top 250 prospect and a four-star recruit. Michigan State has been actively recruiting Hainsey for two years and he’s seriously considering the Spartans are one of the teams he is seriously considering.
Michigan State fans cheer during second half action against Central Michigan on Sept. 26 at Spartan Stadium.
Hainsey is originally from the Pittsburgh area and decided to transfer to IMG Academy before his junior year to help his development. IMG Academy has turned into a powerhouse program and have been able to attract elite players across the country. Practicing with other elite players on a daily basis is just one of the positives aspects of the school.
“I have learned a lot and my coaching has been great,” Hainsey said. “The trainers and nutritionist are really dedicated to helping us. It has been an all-around great experience.”
MSU offensive line coach Mark Staten began recruiting Hainsey back in Pittsburgh. He has continued to be the point man in his recruitment for the Spartans and has developed a good rapport.
“I really like Coach Staten and think he is a great coach,” Hainsey said. “We talk a good bit about how things are going and when I can get back up there to visit.”
Staten has led the development of MSU’s offensive line since 2011. Under his supervision, Jack Conklin and Jack Allen developed into first team All-America selections and future NFL draft picks. The fact that he wants Hainsey back on campus is no surprise.
“I am planning on visit to Michigan State, Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State and Pittsburgh,” Hainsey said. “I am looking for a school that will prepare me for the next level and where I can earn some early playing time. I want to go someplace where I’ll have a chance to win games and where I feel at home.”
Hainsey has scholarship offers from all of those schools he plans to visit as well as a host of other BCS programs. Rivals.com ranks him the No. 26 offensive tackle prospect in the nation and the No. 238 player overall. He was one of the first offensive linemen that MSU offered for the class of 2017.
Matt Dorsey is a recruiting analyst for SpartanMag.com and Rivals.com.