MSU’s Tight End Depth Chart Faces Challenges Heading into the Season
Michigan State University’s (MSU) tight end depth chart is raising concerns as the team prepares for the upcoming season. With a lack of experience and few proven playmakers at the position, it remains to be seen how the tight ends will fare in 2023.
The departure of Daniel Barker and Tyler Hunt has left the TE room quite bare, with Maliq Carr being the only Spartan with any significant stats at the position. Carr is expected to be the team’s starting tight end this season, but beyond him, there are a number of question marks.
In an attempt to address the thin depth at tight end, MSU has brought in three transfers to bolster the position. However, none of them have been particularly productive in their previous stints. Tyneil Hopper, the most experienced of the transfers, played four seasons at Boise State but only managed 22 catches, 259 yards, and 2 touchdowns during that time. Meanwhile, Jaylan Franklin from Wisconsin and Ademola Faleye from Norfolk State have limited career receptions to their names.
Evan Morris is another player who could potentially contribute at tight end for MSU. Interestingly, Morris started his career as a kicker in 2019 but has primarily handled kickoffs and has not attempted any field goals. As a tight end, he has yet to record any statistics. However, Morris was a key player on the special teams units last season.
Incoming freshman Brennan Parachek is the only newcomer in the tight end group. Rated the 11th best tight end in his class, Parachek was a highly-regarded four-star recruit. Redshirt freshmen Michael Masunas and Jack Nickel may struggle to see playing time unless they can make an impact on special teams.
While Maliq Carr is expected to be the primary starter, it is uncertain if anyone else in the tight end group will emerge as a significant contributor. With the lack of proven playmakers and experience, it might be a challenging task for the tight ends to put up significant stats.
As the season approaches, Head Coach Mel Tucker and the coaching staff will be closely monitoring the progress of the tight ends and looking for potential breakout performers. The team is aware of the challenges ahead but remains optimistic that the young players in the group can step up and make an impact.
The MSU tight end position will be an area to watch as the Spartans embark on their 2023 campaign. With a thin depth chart and inexperienced players, it will be interesting to see how they fare and if they can overcome the challenges that lie ahead.
