Washington State Football Faces Key Injuries Ahead of Spring Practice

Washington State University’s football team will be missing four players during the upcoming spring practice, which begins Thursday. Head Coach Kirby Moore announced that offensive linemen Jaylin Caldwell and Trey Leckner, safety Lolo Ta'aga, and tight end Kyle Peterson will not participate due to injuries. Caldwell is recovering from a knee injury, while Leckner has a foot injury that was aggravated late last season. Ta'aga is also dealing with a foot issue, and Peterson is recovering from a shoulder injury sustained during the previous season.

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With Caldwell and Ta'aga sidelined, the right tackle position becomes a focal point for competition. Moore indicated that Max McCree will start at right tackle, despite having previously played left tackle. Other contenders for the position include Chris Lino, Xavier Thorpe, and Sone Falealo, who may shift back from guard to tackle. Moore emphasized the importance of these position battles as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

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The absence of Leckner and Peterson opens up opportunities for several players. Tight end reps will be available for Jack Pedersen, Beau Baker, Hudson Cedarland, Peyton Read, Cash Landau, and Nathaniel Salmon. At safety, Jeremiah Bernard, Jaylen Thomas, Jshawn Frausto-Ramos, Kayo Patu, Gaylon McNeal, Jack Bal, and Trey Ridley will have increased chances to showcase their skills.

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Moore also addressed the ongoing competition for the starting quarterback position among Caden Pinnick, Julian Dugger, and Owen Eshelman. He stated that all three will receive significant reps during practice, emphasizing that the best way to improve is through gameplay experience. Moore noted that the evaluation criteria will focus on production, completion percentage, and the ability to manage pressure situations.

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Moore highlighted the importance of learning to perform under pressure, referencing his experiences at Fresno State and Missouri. He noted that the Southeastern Conference has seen a high percentage of one-score games, which underscores the need for players to be comfortable in tight situations. The coaching staff plans to simulate pressure scenarios during practice to prepare the quarterbacks for real-game situations.

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Moore acknowledged the emergence of leadership within the team, particularly from running backs Kirby Vorhees, Maxwell Woods, and Leo Pulalasi, as well as offensive linemen Kyle Martin, Jonny Lester, Noah Dunham, and Ashton Tripp. He expressed optimism about the team's cohesion, especially with the integration of transfer players.

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Looking ahead to the spring game, Moore indicated a desire for the first two quarters to resemble a true game format, with a potential running clock in the latter half. The final structure will depend on player availability as the team approaches the event.

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• “Two things we can control every play are our feet and our eyes, and we have to make sure those are consistent.” — Kirby Moore, Head Coach

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• “And the best way to get better at playing quarterback is to play.” — Kirby Moore, Head Coach

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• “He’s ready to go.” — Kirby Moore, Head Coach

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As Washington State prepares for spring practice, the focus will be on overcoming injuries, fostering competition, and developing leadership within the team.

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