Conner Moore enters the 2026 season as the only holdover starter on Michigan State’s offensive line, having logged more than 750 snaps a year ago and earned a 69.3 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, including an 80.4 mark as a run‑blocker.
His versatility was on display in 2025 when he alternated between left and right tackle, spending the majority of his snaps at right tackle while still contributing as a reliable blocker in the ground game.
Coaches are now weighing a shift to right guard for Moore, a move driven by injury concerns and the need for a flexible piece that can slide across the line, despite never having lined up at guard at either Michigan State or Montana State.
Adding to the competition, rising redshirt sophomore Rakeem Johnson is already taking snaps at right tackle, giving the staff another option as they assess the best fit for Moore’s skill set.
The upcoming fall camp in early August will be the crucible where the final positioning decisions are made, with the coaching staff evaluating both Moore’s size, strength and the team’s depth chart needs.
Versatility as a Strategic Asset
Moore’s physical profile — standing tall and heavy enough to handle multiple positions — makes him an attractive candidate for a unit that must adapt week after week, and his familiarity with the system could accelerate any transition.
If the staff settles on a guard role, his experience as a tackle will still provide a foundation of technique and poise, while his willingness to learn new responsibilities could keep the offense’s rhythm intact.
The broader impact extends beyond the line, as the Spartans look to build on a 2025 campaign that saw them compete strongly in the Big Ten, and a stable, adaptable front could open up more dynamic play‑calling options for the quarterback.