Kansas State’s 2027 recruiting haul received a boost this week when Jalen Price, a three‑star defensive lineman from Cedar Hill, Texas, announced his verbal commitment to the Wildcats.
Price, listed at 6‑foot‑3 and 250 pounds, chose the Big 12 program over a slate of suitors that included Oklahoma State, Baylor, Auburn and Mississippi State, among others.
The decision marks a reversal from his earlier pledge to Baylor, which he decommitted from on May 23 after a brief stint with the Bears.
The Cedar Hill standout will remain in-state with his high school teammate Jeron Allen, who is also part of the 2027 class, and he cited the personal connections and the coaching staff as key factors in his final choice.
During a campus visit from June 12‑14, Price got a firsthand look at the facilities and culture in Manhattan, an experience that appears to have solidified his intent.
A Strategic Addition for the Wildcats
The addition of Price helps push Kansas State’s recruiting class to No. 28 in the national rankings, a position that trails only Texas Tech within the Big 12 conference.
Analysts note that the Wildcats’ ability to retain top Texas talent underscores a shifting recruiting landscape, where regional ties and coaching continuity can outweigh traditional power‑program allure.
Coaches are expected to integrate Price into the defensive line rotation early, potentially giving the Wildcats a versatile pass‑rusher for the upcoming season.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching how the new commit impacts the team’s depth chart and whether his presence can help elevate the program’s recruiting momentum in the coming years.