A Revamped Defensive Backfield
Kansas State University is set to reshape its secondary for the 2026 campaign, blending returning veterans with a wave of transfers that promise deeper competition at cornerback and safety.
Among the most impactful additions is Zaschon Rich, who emerged as the team’s most heavily used cornerback last season, logging 69 targets and surrendering 593 yards while intercepting one pass. His presence is expected to anchor the unit.
Donovan McIntosh, another returning cornerback, will vie for a starting spot after posting 40 targets with 254 yards allowed and two touchdowns, adding a pass breakup and an interception to his résumé.
The defensive backfield also welcomes Kaleb Patterson, an Illinois transfer who, after a promising start before slipping to fifth in snap count during 2025, hopes to reclaim a starting role.
At safety, Adrian Maddox, a Georgia transfer, is projected to lock down a starting position after a standout stint at UAB where he yielded just 17 catches on 26 targets for 181 yards and an interception. Complementing him, Logan Bartley is expected to bring reliability in run support and coverage as a free safety.
Michael Graham, a JUCO safety coming off a season that featured 50 tackles and eight interceptions, is slated to start at nickel, while Ja'Son Prevard adds versatility, having lined up in slot and box alignments with strong tackling and coverage skills.
The coaching staff’s recent upgrades further bolster the unit. Defensive coordinator Jordan Peterson joins the program alongside seasoned assistants Jeremiah Johnson, Tim DeRuyter and Marcel Yates, all of whom bring a track record of secondary development.
With depth options like Koy Beasley, a Miami transfer, and the return of Wesley Fair, the Wildcats aim to manage injuries proactively while fostering competition that could elevate the entire defensive backfield.