Michigan State Right Tackle Jordan Reid Opts Out Of 2020 season, Will Return In 2021

In his virtual press conference late yesterday afternoon, Michigan State Spartans head coach Mel Tucker was asked about Jacub Panasiuk’s decision to forgo the 2020 season and return in 2021. Tucker said he is “100-percent supporting him in what he wants to do.” He also let everyone know there were other Spartans talking with him considering sitting this upcoming season out. That fact did not take long to find out who one of those other players was as right tackle Jordan Reid announced on Twitter this morning he will also forgo the 2020 season and return to play for MSU in 2021.

Reid states in his announcement that he intends to graduate with his bachelor’s degree in December and return next season to again play on the field for Michigan State. Given his comments about his family and the inherent risks with COVID-19, it more than makes sense on his decision. However, it still comes as a huge blow to an offensive line that has struggled mightily the last two seasons to put it politely.

Reid started every game in 2018 and 2019 at right tackle after playing as a true freshman in 2017, including one start. Not only that, but he played more snaps than every other player on offense these two seasons that were riddled with injuries throughout that side of the ball. He made 26 straight starts in a period where MSU was forced to utilize 16 different starting offensive line combinations because of injuries.

Needless to say his sitting the season out will be a blow to what was hoped would be an improved unit as an influx of young talent over the past few seasons continues to grow and gain experience. Ryan of course has a great breakdown from early last month previewing the offensive line for anyone wanting to look at who could step up as a potential replacement option.

It probably should not have come as a shock for anyone who follows Reid on Twitter as he has this tweet pinned from July 24:

As for this season? Reid had the following to add from his announcement:

“With that being said, I wish my brothers the best of luck this season as I will be cheering them on! I look forward to what the future holds and can’t wait to hit the ground running next season.”

Best of luck in the classroom to Reid, and I look forward to seeing him back on the field next season. In the meantime, Go Green!