Kansas State’s football program is poised for a pivotal 2026 campaign, with analysts placing the Wildcats among the top contenders for the Big 12 championship and listing them at 14‑to‑1 odds to reach the conference title game.
The Players Who Could Shape the Big 12 Race
At the center of the conversation are five standout athletes whose performances will likely determine whether the Wildcats can translate preseason buzz into on‑field success.
Wendell Gregory, a 6‑foot‑3 sophomore defensive end, brings a rare blend of size and pass‑rush ability after a freshman season at Oklahoma State that saw him record 27 tackles and four sacks, a performance that earned high praise from quarterback Avery Johnson.
Linkon Cure, the former five‑star tight end, has returned from injury with a stronger frame and a focus on blocking and route precision, aiming to become a reliable target in the red zone.
Jordan Allen, a junior defensive end, has dominated preseason drills and is expected to anchor the line both on the edge and inside, contributing to tackles for loss and sacks alongside Gregory.
Running back Joe Jackson, who set a school record with 293 rushing yards and three touchdowns against Utah last season, will face tougher defenses this year as transfers Rodney Fields and Jay Harris join the backfield, while senior quarterback Avery Johnson plans to stay at K‑State for the remainder of his career and finally break through after three uneven seasons.
The schedule pits Kansas State against familiar foes such as Texas Tech, BYU and Utah, all of whom are listed as early favorites for the conference championship. If the Wildcats can harness the strengths of their key players, the season could mark a turning point for a program that has long chased its first major conference triumph.