Kansas State Football: Wildcats to follow in 2020 NFL Draft

For the first time in over two decades, it appears likely that Kansas State football will go without a name being called during the 2020 NFL Draft.

For the first time since 1993, it could be a strong possibility that the Kansas State football program will go the entire draft without a single Wildcat hearing their name called. This is perhaps a bit of surprise considering the heavy senior laden roster along both the offensive lines, but all indications point toward a quiet weekend for the Cats. Does it mean anything?

The short answer is not really. Those close to the program could see the decline in talent during the last years of the Bill Snyder era. However, there were, and still are, talented football players on the roster.

So while the streak could come to an end, I fully anticipate a new streak to start during the 2021 draft. However, before we get there, here are a few names to follow toward the back of the draft and into undrafted free agency.

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Trey Dishon, Defensive Tackle

Dishon was a four year starter at defensive tackle and was a middle gap plugger with decent quickness and burst. Dishon isn’t quite big enough to play in the middle as a run stuffer and lacks the NFL level athleticism to make plays and be a disruptor. Maybe he has a chance to find a spot on a practice squad and add some weight.

Reggie Walker, Outside Linebacker/ EDGE

Walker appeared to be an emerging star after a solid freshman season but failed to gain traction afterwards, but still put together a solid career. He was a solid rotational defensive end, but was overshadowed by future NFL draft pick Wyatt Hubert. Walker, much like Dishon, appears to lack the burst to compensate for a lack of size, but likely gets an opportunity to make a team in training camp.

Scott Frantz, Offensive Tackle

Starting at left tackle for the Cats for the past four seasons, Frantz’s storyline is very similar to the players mentioned above. Four year contributor/starter, Frantz has had moments, especially early on during his career.

However, a lack of size and power limits his opportunities, and unfortunately, his being openly gay could lead to a lack of opportunities as coaches attempt to shy away from media attention.

Devin Anctil, Punter

Punters rarely get drafted, but often get training camp opportunities, and I expect the same with Anctil. After averaging 45.4 yards per punt as a senior in 2019, I won’t be surprised to see him get a shot in a training camp this fall, assuming training camps take place as regularly scheduled.

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The Wildcats senior class helped win some games at Kansas State, but appear to collectively lack the traits and skillset to play beyond the college level. Perhaps that is best highlighted by the fact Washburn (Topeka KS) lineman Kyle Hinton was the best looking prospect at the Kansas State Pro Day earlier this spring.

The drought of draft picks could potentially extend to two years, depending on the performance of Hubert and if he goes pro, and graduate transfer tight end Briley Moore – a Northern Iowa product that has NFL aspirations but missed the 2019 season due to injury.

Hopefully at least one Kansas State prospect hears his name called this weekend so the streak can continue, but don’t be surprised if it doesn’t.