The Kansas State Wildcats opened their 2024 preseason camp with a media session on August 18, the first time the public could watch the team in action under new head coach Collin Klein. The drill began on the outdoor practice field but was quickly moved inside as a sudden thunderstorm rolled over Manhattan, forcing the squad to continue work in the indoor facility.
Two familiar faces were missing from the line: left tackle John Pastore and left guard Tanner Morley, both of whom had been slated to anchor the offensive front. Pastore, the only returning starter on the line and a preseason All‑Big 12 selection, had been expected to lead the unit, while Morley arrived via the transfer portal to add depth. Their absence left a noticeable gap, prompting coaches to look at younger options such as freshman Oliver Miller, who has already drawn praise for his size and agility.
With the departure of Pastore and Morley, the remaining three spots along the line are up for grabs. The right guard position is currently contested among several candidates, and the coaching staff has yet to name a clear successor at left tackle. The uncertainty reflects an aggressive overhaul of the unit, a process that Klein has described as necessary to modernize the Wildcats’ attack.
Looking Ahead
The early practice offers a glimpse of what could become a pivotal season for Kansas State, but the line’s development will be closely watched as the Wildcats prepare for their season opener. Media access to Klein and his coordinators will be limited in the coming days, with the head coach not made available until Monday, August 31, and assistants only speaking to reporters on Thursday, August 20. Until then, the team’s internal evaluations will remain private, leaving observers to speculate on how quickly the new scheme will gel.