Michigan State Football: Ian Stewart may be pushing for starting role

One of the best and deepest position groups Michigan State football has heading into the 2021 season may have just found another weapon this spring.

Ian Stewart, who played primarily on special teams as a true freshman, made the switch from receiver to tight end in his first collegiate season after being recruited as a wide out by Mark Dantonio. Mel Tucker felt that he had more of a tight end projection and his frame would have been better suited for the position.

But this spring, he switched back to receiver, trimmed some body fat, added some muscle, and he looks like a completely different player.

During the open practice on Saturday, he was one of the Spartans’ top standout performers, catching a number of high difficulty passes and making it look routine. He proved that he can make plays at the receiver position, albeit against a former walk-on corner, and have a positive impact on the offensive side of the ball and not just on special teams.

Michigan State football looking for WR3?

Michigan State might have an opening at receiver this upcoming season (no one knows what’s going on with Ricky White at the moment) and there could be a battle for that third starting spot alongside Jalen Nailor and Jayden Reed. Those two are locked in as starters.

CJ Hayes may be a top option given the fact that he has the most experience in the position group. Tre Mosley might be the best option out of the remaining group because he wasn’t quite healthy last season but made an impact as a true freshman in 2019. His ceiling is incredibly high. Terry Lockett Jr., Montorie Foster, Keon Coleman, Christian Fitzpatrick, and Maliq Carr could also push for that last spot in the starting rotation.

But Stewart looked the part during the spring scrimmage and he’s undoubtedly gotten in better shape and improved as a player.

If Michigan State is looking for WR3 this offseason, Stewart officially entered his name into the race with his strong showing and he could be one of those breakout stars in 2021.