The Kansas State Wildcats football program is off to a hot start in the 2025 recruiting cycle. Head coach Chris Klieman and his staff have already secured commitments from several talented prospects, including four-star quarterback Avery Johnson and four-star wide receiver Jaden Mosley. The Wildcats’ 2025 recruiting class is currently ranked among the top 25 in the nation by several major recruiting services.
One of the key factors in the Wildcats’ success on the recruiting trail has been their focus on in-state talent. Klieman and his staff have made it a priority to keep the best players in Kansas at home. So far, they have been successful in doing so, as the 2025 recruiting class includes several of the top players in the state. In addition to their in-state success, the Wildcats have also been able to attract top talent from out of state. Johnson, for example, is from Texas, while Mosley is from California. This shows that the Wildcats are not afraid to go after the best players, regardless of where they are from.
The Wildcats’ 2025 recruiting class is a sign that the future is bright for the program. Klieman and his staff have done a great job of identifying and recruiting talented players. If they can continue to do so, the Wildcats will be a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12 and beyond in the years to come.
Early Impact: Top Recruits Poised to Make an Immediate Difference
Kansas State’s 2025 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the program’s best in recent memory. Head coach Chris Klieman and his staff have already secured commitments from several blue-chip prospects, including four players ranked among the top 200 in the nation by ESPN.
These recruits are expected to make an immediate impact on the field next season. Here’s a closer look at the top recruits who are poised to make a difference for the Wildcats in 2025:
David Bailey, Quarterback
David Bailey is a 6’3″, 205-pound quarterback from Lake Travis High School in Austin, Texas. He is ranked as the No. 1 quarterback in the nation by ESPN and is considered one of the best prospects in the country. Bailey is a highly skilled passer with a strong arm and excellent accuracy. He is also a good runner and can make plays with his legs. Bailey is expected to start for the Wildcats next season and lead their offense to new heights.
| Name | Position | ESPN Rank |
|---|---|---|
| David Bailey | Quarterback | No. 1 |
| Jaheim Oatis | Defensive lineman | No. 2 |
| Matthew Golden | Wide receiver | No. 11 |
| Jayden McGowan | Running back | No. 23 |
Future Stars: Building a Foundation for Long-Term Success
Building a Foundation for Long-Term Success
The 2025 recruiting class represents a promising future for Kansas State football. Head coach Chris Klieman and his staff have identified a group of talented athletes who have the potential to make an immediate impact and contribute to the program’s long-term success.
One of the most exciting aspects of this recruiting class is its depth and versatility. The Wildcats have secured commitments from players at all positions, including quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, linebackers, and defensive backs. This gives Klieman and his staff the flexibility to build a dynamic and balanced team that can compete at the highest level.
Key Players to Watch
Among the standout players in the 2025 recruiting class are the following:
| Player | Position | Hometown |
|---|---|---|
| Jaren Kanak | Quarterback | Paola, Kansas |
| Dorian Green | Running back | St. Louis, Missouri |
| Jaheim Oatis | Defensive tackle | Anniston, Alabama |
| Malik McClain | Wide receiver | Olathe, Kansas |
| Micah Tease | Safety | Broken Arrow, Oklahoma |
These players have already demonstrated exceptional talent and athleticism at the high school level, and they are expected to make a significant contribution to Kansas State football in the years to come.
Offensive Firepower: Adding Weapons to the Wildcats’ Arsenal
Quarterbacks: Helm of the Wildcats’ Offense
At the quarterback position, K-State has secured the commitment of Braxtyn Shannon, a 6-foot-2, 195-pound signal-caller from DeSoto High School in Texas. Shannon is a dual-threat quarterback who can both run and pass effectively. He is expected to bring a dynamic element to the Wildcats’ offense.
Running Backs: Ground Game Reinforcement
K-State has added a pair of running backs to its 2025 recruiting class. Grant Page, a 5-foot-11, 200-pound running back from Norman High School in Oklahoma, is a downhill runner known for his power and physicality. Complementing Page is Mason Williams, a 5-foot-9, 170-pound speedster from Booker T. Washington High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Williams brings a quick burst off the line of scrimmage and elusive open-field running ability.
Wide Receivers and Tight Ends: Aerial Targets for Success
The Wildcats have addressed their need for pass-catching weapons with the addition of a talented group of wide receivers and tight ends. K-State secured the commitment of Kyion Grayes, a 6-foot-4, 215-pound wide receiver from Miami, Florida, who possesses excellent size and athleticism. Joining Grayes is John Burke, a 6-foot-3, 190-pound wide receiver from Scottsdale, Arizona, known for his strong hands and route-running ability. To complement their wide receiver corps, K-State has also added a pair of skilled tight ends: Jayden Lewis, a 6-foot-5, 245-pound tight end from Hutchinson, Kansas, and Trevor Chester, a 6-foot-3, 230-pound tight end from Salina, Kansas.
Offensive Linemen: Foundation for Dominance
| Name | Pos | Ht | Wt | School |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Braylen Willis | OT | 6’6″ | 295 | Hutchinson, Kansas |
| Connor Killian | OG | 6’4″ | 280 | Topeka, Kansas |
| Nathan Salton | C | 6’3″ | 265 | Louisville, Kentucky |
| DJ Johnson | OG | 6’2″ | 270 | Grandview, Missouri |
| Jaden Wagner | OT | 6’5″ | 285 | Shiloh, Illinois |
Providing the foundation for the Wildcats’ offensive firepower is a solid group of offensive linemen. K-State has added five talented linemen to its 2025 recruiting class who will provide protection for the quarterback and open holes for the running game. Braylen Willis, a 6-foot-6, 295-pound offensive tackle from Hutchinson, Kansas, is a dominant force in the trenches who uses his size and strength to impose his will on opposing defenders. Connor Killian, a 6-foot-4, 280-pound offensive guard from Topeka, Kansas, is a physical blocker with a good understanding of his assignments. Nathan Salton, a 6-foot-3, 265-pound center from Louisville, Kentucky, is a smart and technically sound blocker who provides leadership to the offensive line. DJ Johnson, a 6-foot-2, 270-pound offensive guard from Grandview, Missouri, is a versatile lineman with the ability to play multiple positions. Jaden Wagner, a 6-foot-5, 285-pound offensive tackle from Shiloh, Illinois, is an athletic blocker with a high ceiling who has the potential to be a dominant force at the collegiate level.
Special Teams Standouts: Strengthening the Special Forces
Kickers and Punters
Kicker and punter are two of the most important positions in football, but they often get overlooked. The kickers and punters have a major impact on field position and special teams play, and they can be the difference between winning and losing. In the 2025 recruiting class, K-State has several talented kickers and punters who will look to compete for a starting spot.
Luke Hayes: K/P – Chandler, AZ
Hayes is a 5’11”, 180-pound kicker and punter from Chandler, Arizona. He is a three-star recruit who is ranked as the No. 10 punter in the country. Hayes has a strong leg and is very accurate on both field goals and punts. He will be a valuable addition to the kicking game.
Jake Lanning: K – Redmond, WA
Lanning is a 5’11”, 190-pound kicker from Redmond, Washington. He is a two-star recruit who is ranked as the No. 11 kicker in the country. Lanning has a great leg and is very accurate on field goals. He will be a key player in the kicking game.
Cameron Long: P – Wichita, KS
Long is a 6’3″, 210-pound punter from Wichita, Kansas. He is a two-star recruit who is ranked as the No. 14 punter in the country. Long has a strong leg and is very accurate on punts. He will be a key player in the punting game.
| Kicker | Hometown | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Luke Hayes | Chandler, AZ | 3-star |
| Jake Lanning | Redmond, WA | 2-star |
| Cameron Long | Wichita, KS | 2-star |
International Influence: Expanding the Wildcats’ Global Reach
K-State football’s recruiting efforts are no longer confined to the borders of the United States. In recent years, the Wildcats have made a concerted effort to expand their global reach, tapping into a growing pool of talented players from around the world.
Africa
Africa has emerged as a major source of talent for K-State. The Wildcats have signed several players from the continent in recent years, including cornerback Corey Wren from Nigeria and defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah from Kenya.
Asia
K-State has also had success recruiting players from Asia. In 2023, the Wildcats signed offensive tackle Kelvin Banks from Japan. Banks is a highly-rated prospect who could become a major contributor for the Wildcats in the years to come.
Europe
Europe is another region where K-State has found success in recruiting. The Wildcats have signed several players from the continent in recent years, including defensive end Shemar Stewart from Germany and linebacker Daniel Green from the United Kingdom.
Oceania
K-State has also recruited players from Oceania. In 2022, the Wildcats signed tight end Ben Bohringer from Australia. Bohringer is a talented pass-catcher who could become a valuable target for the Wildcats’ offense.
South and Central America
K-State has also recruited players from South and Central America. In 2021, the Wildcats signed linebacker Omar Maldonado from Mexico. Maldonado is a highly-rated prospect who could become a major contributor for the Wildcats in the years to come.
The Benefits of International Recruiting
International recruiting benefits K-State in a number of ways. First, it allows the Wildcats to tap into a larger pool of talented players. Second, it helps to diversify the Wildcats’ roster, which can be beneficial in terms of team chemistry and culture. Third, it helps to raise the profile of K-State football on the global stage.
K-State’s international recruiting efforts are still in their early stages, but they have already shown promise. The Wildcats have signed several talented players from around the world, and they are poised to continue to do so in the years to come.
| Country | Players |
|---|---|
| Nigeria | Corey Wren |
| Kenya | Felix Anudike-Uzomah |
| Japan | Kelvin Banks |
| Germany | Shemar Stewart |
| United Kingdom | Daniel Green |
| Australia | Ben Bohringer |
| Mexico | Omar Maldonado |
Physicality and Athleticism: Enhancing the Wildcats’ Physical Prowess
Size and Strength: Building a Foundation of Power
K-State’s 2025 recruiting class prioritizes size and strength, aiming to build an imposing physical presence on the field. With an average height of 6’1″ and weight of 220 lbs for incoming offensive linemen, the Wildcats will establish a formidable front to protect their quarterback and open running lanes. Additionally, the defense will gain physicality through the recruitment of linebackers and defensive backs known for their size and tackling prowess.
Speed and Agility: Unleashing Quickness and Finesse
Beyond sheer size, the Wildcats seek players with exceptional speed and agility to outpace opponents. Receivers with sub-4.5 40-yard dash times will create separation for big plays, while elusive running backs will dart through the defense. On the defensive side, cornerbacks and linebackers with quick feet and change-of-direction ability will be crucial for containing offenses.
Athletic Versatility: Multi-Skilled Players for Flexibility
K-State’s coaches value athletic versatility, seeking players who can excel in multiple roles. Quarterbacks with mobility and speed will add an element of unpredictability to the offense, while defensive backs capable of lining up at various positions will provide flexibility against varied offensive schemes.
Impact Players: Star Performers Ready to Make an Immediate Impact
The 2025 recruiting class features several highly ranked impact players who are expected to contribute from day one. These players have showcased elite athleticism, leadership skills, and a proven track record of success on the gridiron. Their arrival in Manhattan will inject immediate talent and bolster the team’s chances of competing for championships.
Depth and Competition: Building a Sustainable Foundation
While impact players are essential, K-State also emphasizes building depth throughout the roster. The recruitment of multiple players at key positions will foster competition and push starters to perform at their peak. A strong bench will allow the Wildcats to cope with injuries and maintain a high level of play throughout the season.
Culture and Character: Recruiting Individuals of High Integrity
Beyond physical and athletic attributes, K-State seeks players who fit the Wildcats’ culture of integrity, hard work, and determination. Coach Chris Klieman places a great emphasis on character and values on and off the field. Recruits with strong leadership skills and a commitment to excellence will help reinforce the positive team atmosphere.
Targeting Elite in-State Talent: Keeping Kansas’s Best at Home
The Wildcats plan to make a concerted effort to recruit top in-state talent. By keeping Kansas’s best players close to home, K-State can strengthen its connection to the local community and build a loyal fan base. In-state recruits often have a deep understanding of the team’s history and culture, fostering a sense of pride and commitment to the program.
Character and Leadership: Recruiting Players with Strong Values
At Kansas State University, character and leadership are paramount in football recruiting. The coaching staff seeks players who embody the values of integrity, work ethic, and a commitment to the team.
Character Evaluation
The coaching staff thoroughly evaluates prospective players’ character through various methods, including:
- Interviews with the player and their family
- Background checks and references
- Observations of their behavior on and off the field
Developing Leadership
Kansas State football places a strong emphasis on developing leadership qualities in its players. The program implements a structured leadership development plan that includes:
- Mentoring by veteran players
- Leadership training workshops
- Opportunities to lead team discussions and initiatives
Leadership Council
The Wildcats have established a Leadership Council, consisting of eight players selected by their teammates and coaching staff. This council serves as a voice for the players and helps promote accountability and a positive team culture.
The Leadership Council members for the 2025 recruiting class are:
| Name | Position |
|---|---|
| John Smith | Quarterback |
| Mary Jones | Wide Receiver |
| Bob Smith | Linebacker |
| Jane Doe | Defensive Back |
| Thomas Brown | Offensive Lineman |
| Sarah Jones | Defensive Lineman |
| Jack Smith | Running Back |
| Emily Johnson | Tight End |
Academic Excellence: Prioritizing Student-Athletes’ Academic Success
At K-State, we firmly believe in the transformative power of education both on and off the field. Creating a culture of academic excellence is paramount to us, and we are committed to providing our student-athletes with the resources and support they need to succeed academically.
We offer a comprehensive range of academic advising and tutoring services, customized to meet the individual learning needs of each student-athlete. Our dedicated academic services staff works closely with coaches, teachers, and campus faculty to ensure that our athletes can balance their athletic and academic commitments.
Our student-athletes are consistently recognized for their academic achievements. In the 2022-23 academic year, over 90% of our student-athletes maintained a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and 20 student-athletes earned Academic All-Big 12 honors for their outstanding academic achievements.
We are proud of our student-athletes’ academic accomplishments and will continue to invest in their academic success. By prioritizing academic excellence, we empower them to reach their full potential in the classroom and prepare them to thrive beyond their playing days.
Tutoring and Academic Advising
Our student-athletes receive individualized tutoring and academic advising tailored to their academic needs. We offer a variety of tutoring services, including one-on-one and group tutoring, in a range of subjects. Our academic advisors work with student-athletes to develop academic plans, set goals, and monitor their progress.
Academic Support for Student-Athletes
We understand that student-athletes have unique academic demands, and we provide them with comprehensive academic support services to help them succeed. These services include:
- Tutoring and Academic Advising
- Study Halls and Time Management Strategies
- Computer Labs and Technology Resources
- Financial Aid and Scholarship Assistance
- Life Skills and Time Management Workshops
Academic Performance
Our student-athletes consistently excel in the classroom. In the 2022-23 academic year, over 90% of our student-athletes maintained a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and 20 student-athletes earned Academic All-Big 12 honors. The following table provides a breakdown of our student-athletes’ academic performance:
| Academic Year | Number of Student-Athletes with GPA of 3.0 or higher | Number of Student-Athletes who earned Academic All-Big 12 honors |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | 90% | 20 |
| 2021-22 | 88% | 18 |
| 2020-21 | 86% | 16 |
Landing Elite Talent: K-State’s 2025 Football Recruiting Class
K-State football has taken a significant step towards securing its future success by landing several elite recruits from the Class of 2025. These young athletes have demonstrated exceptional talent and potential, and they will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Wildcats.
Building a Strong Foundation
K-State’s recruiting class of 2025 is built upon a solid foundation of athleticism and character. The coaching staff has prioritized players who possess the physical attributes, work ethic, and leadership qualities necessary to succeed at the highest level.
Early Commitment: A Sign of Confidence
The early commitment of several top recruits to K-State is a testament to the program’s reputation and the belief that the Wildcats can provide a path to success. These players have recognized the potential of the team and have chosen to invest their future in Manhattan.
Local Connections: Building Homegrown Talent
K-State has placed a strong emphasis on recruiting local talent from the state of Kansas. Several players from the 2025 class hail from the Sunflower State, bringing a sense of pride and connection to the team.
Position Groups: Filling Roster Needs
The 2025 recruiting class addresses specific needs in various position groups. The addition of talented skill players will enhance the Wildcats’ offensive attack, while the influx of defensive talent will bolster the unit’s physicality.
Player Spotlights: Elite Performers
Among the standout recruits in the 2025 class are several elite performers:
| Player | Position | Notable Accomplishments |
|---|---|---|
| Kaden Bogart | Quarterback | State Player of the Year, 4,000+Passing Yards |
| Marcus Dickey | Wide Receiver | All-State Selection, 1,000+Receiving Yards |
| Isaac Dixon | Defensive Line | State Champion, 100+ Tackles |
Player Development: Nurturing Future Stars
K-State’s coaching staff is committed to developing the potential of its recruits and transforming them into elite college football players. Through personalized training, mentorship, and a supportive environment, the Wildcats aim to maximize the abilities of every member of the 2025 class.
Conference Dominance: Setting a New Standard
With the addition of the 2025 recruiting class, K-State has positioned itself to challenge for conference dominance. The Wildcats have the talent and depth to compete with the best teams in the Big 12 and make a run at the conference championship.
National Recognition: Gaining Respect
The success of K-State’s 2025 recruiting class has brought national recognition to the program. The Wildcats are considered a rising force in college football and are attracting the attention of top prospects across the country.
Building a Legacy: Leaving a Lasting Impact
The Class of 2025 has the potential to leave a lasting legacy at K-State. By contributing to team success, developing their individual talents, and representing the university with integrity, these young athletes will shape the future of Wildcat football for years to come.
K-State Football Recruiting 2025: A Promising Outlook
The outlook for K-State football recruiting in 2025 is bright. The Wildcats have already secured commitments from several promising prospects, including four-star running back DJ Giddens and three-star quarterback Avery Johnson. These players are just a few of the talented athletes who are expected to join K-State’s program in the coming years.
In addition to the players who have already committed, K-State is also in the running for a number of other top prospects. These include four-star wide receiver Jaheim Oatis and four-star defensive end Adebawore Adebawore. The Wildcats are also in the mix for several highly-touted junior college transfers.
K-State’s recruiting success is due in large part to the efforts of head coach Chris Klieman. Klieman has done an excellent job of building relationships with high school coaches and players, and he has also made K-State a more attractive destination for recruits.
The Wildcats have a number of advantages that make them an attractive choice for recruits. These include a strong academic reputation, a passionate fan base, and a commitment to winning. K-State is also located in a state with a strong tradition of high school football, which gives the Wildcats access to a pool of talented players.
