Michigan State entered its first preseason workout with a clear question: who would fill the void left by the departures of Jack Velling and Michael Masunas? Both players exited the program through eligibility exhaustion and the transfer portal, leaving a substantial gap in the tight end room that the coaching staff needed to address quickly.
Early Pecking Order Emerges
The session revealed a surprisingly competitive hierarchy among the remaining tight ends. Jayden Savoury, a redshirt freshman, and Eddie Whiting, a true freshman, both earned early reps with the second‑team unit, while veteran Carson Gulker, a Division II transfer, added depth to the group.
Savoury’s athleticism shone through on a 16‑yard reception that echoed his basketball background, demonstrating the kind of reliable hands the program has been seeking. Whiting, despite his rookie status, impressed enough to secure a spot in the two‑deep, suggesting he could see significant snaps as the season progresses.
Coach Brian Wozniak and head coach Pat Fitzgerald praised the duo’s combination of size, speed, and blocking ability, noting that both players possess the physical traits typical of Big Ten tight ends. Their comments underscored a belief that Savoury and Whiting could evolve into every‑down contributors sooner rather than later.
The coaching staff also highlighted the impact of the new 5‑in‑5 rule, which granted Savoury additional playing time last season but initially limited his involvement due to redshirt considerations. Now, with the roster reshaped, the rule may allow him to factor more consistently into the offense.
Physical measurements placed Savoury at 253 pounds and Whiting at 254 pounds, aligning them with the typical build of Big Ten tight ends. Their basketball experience contributes to their agility and contested‑catch ability, traits that could prove decisive in the upcoming schedule.