Kansas State Football: Spring position groups to watch prior to 2019
By John McCarty
Fans will look to put names to faces on the running back group revamped under new regime.
At the conclusion of the 2018 season and following the draft announcement of Alex Barnes, the Kansas State football program had zero scholarship running backs on their roster. Zero.
Walk-on transfer Harry Trotter was the only back on the roster. Depth at all levels was needed in a desperate way, and new coach Kleiman and staff went to work adding backs to the roster.
Bringing the North Dakota State offense with him, Chris Klieman and his offensive coordinator Courtney Messingham set out to find someone that could play immediately. Graduate transfer James Gilbert of Ball State fits the bill and is likely the starter for the Wildcats to open the 2019 season. After rushing for 689 yards and seven touchdowns, Gilbert will look to make his mark with the Wildcats in his lone season in purple.
The Wildcats have numerous incoming running back recruits looking to make an impact including C.J. Price, Thomas Grayson, Joe Ervin, and fullback Jax Dineen. All will have the opportunity to make an impact and play early in their careers in Manhattan.
Whomever carries the ball, the Wildcats will need production from this position during the season if they are to be successful during the 2019 season.