2026 Depth Chart Overview
Kansas State’s preseason depth chart for the 2026 season is being shaped by a combination of spring practice observations, coach commentary and the natural progression of its roster. While the full lineup is not yet set in stone, early projections give a clear picture of where the Wildcats expect to start.
At quarterback, Avery Johnson is slated to take the first snap, giving the team a returning starter who has already seen extensive action under center. The backup role remains unsettled, with Blake Barnett, Dillon Duff and Jacob Knuth all listed as potential alternatives, but the coaching staff has yet to name a clear second‑string option.
Wide receiver corps appears more settled. Josh Manning and Jaron Tibbs are locked in as starters, while Izaiah Williams and Brandon White round out the top four. Behind them, Adonis Moise, Derrick Salley Jr., Larry Porter IV and Max Lovett are competing for rotational spots.
Running back duties are projected to belong to Joe Jackson, though Rodney Fields and Jay Harris are expected to push for playing time. In the trenches, the offensive line features starters John Pastore, Tanner Morley, Delvin Morris, Charlie Adams and Gus Hawkins, with a deep bench of George Fitzpatrick and Ryan Howard ready to step in if needed.
At tight end, Linkon Cure and Garrett Oakley are expected to start, with Will Anciaux providing depth. The defensive front will rely on Kamari Burns and Austin Ramsey as starting tackles, while Zashon Rich, Kaleb Patterson and Michael Graham anchor the interior. Backup options include Holden Bass and Adrian Bekibele.
The secondary will be anchored by Zashon Rich, Kaleb Patterson and Michael Graham at cornerback, while Adrian Maddox and Logan Bartley are slated to start at safety. Both positions have backup candidates such as Donovan McIntosh and Josiah Vilmael, who may see increased snaps depending on performance.
Linebacker corps is headed by Mekhi Mason, Darien Whitaker and Rex Van Wyhe, with Gabe Powers and Jacobi Oliphant pushing for rotation minutes. Edge rushers Wendell Gregory and Elijah Hill are expected to lead the pass rush, though Hill’s transition to a Power Five environment remains a key storyline.
Special teams competition includes kicker Luis Rodriguez and punter Simon McClannan as the projected starters, with Robert Hammond III and Dylan Davidson respectively serving as backups. Return duties will likely be shared by Sterling Lockett and Brandon White, while Andrew Johnson is slated to handle long snapping duties, backed up by Jaxson Duffield.
Coach commentary suggests that while several positions have clear starters, many spots remain open to competition, especially along the offensive line and defensive front. The development of players like Elijah Hill at the Power Five level will be closely watched as the season approaches.
Coverage of the Wildcats’ preparations is being provided by Wyatt D. Wheeler, who is tracking the team’s progress throughout the offseason.