Michigan State adds three-star kicker Martin Connington
Michigan State added to its 2024 recruiting class when it landed a commitment from three-star kicker Martin Connington. The Boise (Idaho) Bishop Kelly recruit announced his decision on Jan. 22 via social media, flipping his pledge from Oregon State.
Connington—who originally committed to Boise State in August 2023—opted to de-commit from the Broncos after a trip to Corvallis, Ore. The three-star committed to then-Oregon State head coach Jonathan Smith and his staff in October.
Smith was named Michigan State head coach in November, signaling another shift in Connington’s recruitment. Connington did not sign his national letter of intent with the Beavers during the early signing period in December. Instead, Connington scheduled an official visit to East Lansing for the Jan. 19 weekend.
After a successful weekend visit, Connington flipped his commitment for a second time, following Smith to Michigan State.
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Spartan co-special teams coordinators Keith Bhonapha and Chad Wilt were able to successfully convince the three-star to head east, away from his home state of Idaho. Bhonapha—who aided with Connington’s recruitment at Oregon State—led the charge, with Wilt joining the Michigan State staff later in the process.
Connington will join a talented specialist room in East Lansing. Graduate student kicker Jonathan Kim announced his return in December. Kim made 13-of-18 field goal tries with a long of 58 yards. He also added 28 touchbacks on 42 kickoff attempts.
Connington is the No. 5-ranked kicker and the No. 14-ranked punter in the nation, according to Kohl’s Kicking.
