A Revamped Receiving Corps
Michigan State entered the offseason after losing two of its most productive wide receivers, Nick Marsh and Omari Kelly, who together accounted for a sizable share of the team's passing yards last season.
Wide‑receivers coach Courtney Hawkins, now in his third stint under a new head coach since joining the program in 2020, has said the staff will lean on a broader rotation, potentially employing six to nine different players to fill the void.
Among the returning options, Chrishon McCray is slated to lead the slot, having posted 24 catches for 330 yards and three touchdowns in the previous season, while Charles Taplin is expected to remain a starter thanks to his speed and deep‑threat ability. Rodney Bullard Jr. is also projected as a starter but is currently navigating an NCAA injunction hearing scheduled for August 27.
The roster welcomes several transfers who could add depth, including KK Smith, who arrived from Notre Dame with eight receptions for 123 yards and two touchdowns, and Fredrick Moore, a Michigan alumnus with 15 career catches. Bryson Williams, formerly a running back, is being evaluated for his receiving potential, and Braylon Collier is competing for playing time after limited action last year.
Additional depth comes from Jameel Gardner Jr., a Jackson State import who led the team with 32 catches for 483 yards and two touchdowns against FCS opponents, as well as true freshmen Samson Gash and Zach Washington, who are expected to see increased snaps as the season progresses.
The coaching staff also notes the presence of non‑scholarship wideouts such as Jack Yanachik, Nick Hardy and Colin Charles, who may contribute on special teams and provide extra depth.