Kansas State offensive line uncertainty deepens as starters absent from open practice

Kansas State football’s first open media practice on Tuesday, 18 August, in Manhattan was defined by the conspicuous absence of two assumed offensive line starters. Left tackle John Pastore and left guard Tanner Morley were not observed during the initial portion of the session, which was moved indoors due to deteriorating weather conditions in the area.

The incident has intensified scrutiny on the team’s offensive line construction under new head coach Collin Klein. The unit has undergone a substantial overhaul this offseason, with Pastore standing as the sole returning starter from the previous roster. Morley, a recent acquisition from the transfer portal, was previously regarded as a key component of the Wildcats’ strategy to bolster the line.

It remains unclear whether the players are dealing with injury, suspension, or simply resting. The extent of their absence and the underlying reasons have not been disclosed by the institution. Pastore, a preseason All-Big 12 selection, and Morley were considered the most established figures along the line throughout the preseason.

With the other three offensive line positions appearing open for competition, the absence of these two players has created immediate structural questions. If the starters remain unavailable, the coaching staff may turn to freshman Oliver Miller at left tackle, who has received high praise since arriving on campus. The left guard position, however, remains a point of contention, with several players currently battling for the right guard spot.

Kansas State has not scheduled head coach Collin Klein for media availability until Monday, 31 August. Offensive coordinators are slated to speak to the press on Thursday, 20 August, but no immediate clarification has been provided regarding the status of the offensive line veterans.