Kansas State Football: Help is on the way for 2021 season

Linebacker

Similar issues at linebacker were mentioned with the cornerbacks. While the linebackers haven’t had the transfers, they do face the departures from long-term contributors Elijah Sullivan and Justin Hughes as well as depth piece Cody Fletcher. Daniel Green is scheduled to return, but few players other than the redshirt sophomore have much if any experience on the field.

Currently, the Cats also are a bit light in terms of commits for coming in. Krew Jackson of Arizona is committed to play linebacker at K-State along with Gardner product Davonte Pritchard. Gavin Hasselhorst may be a linebacker but is more likely an edge pass rusher along the defensive line.

The Cats need a transfer (or transfers) at this position. They need players ready to step in and at least fight for playing time if not capable of getting on the field quickly. We will see what happens, but we should expect to see the Cats look at adding bodies at this position group throughout the winter and into the spring.

Kansas State has a developing group, but reinforcements are needed to continue the program’s ascent.

The Wildcats’ top recruit for this next class is quarterback Jake Rubley who will enroll early and come in to compete with Will Howard to start at the position for the Wildcats. The offense hopes Joe Ervin can return for next season to combine with the returning running backs to help the offense. The hope of returning receivers can develop and help the offense.

On defense, the hope is that the linebackers and defensive backfield can replenish their numbers behind the really good defensive front with bodies coming back and help the squad compete for more wins and bowl games. The Wildcats have battled and sustained a rough football season as Americans, in general, have sustained and endured.

There is light at the end of the tunnel, and while the process may take longer than fans had hoped, the arrow is pointing in the right direction.