Kansas State’s 2026 Draft‑Ready Roster
The 2026 college football season is already generating buzz as Kansas State prepares a roster that could send multiple players into the 2027 NFL Draft. Head coach Collin Klein is shaping a unit that blends proven production with high‑upside prospects, setting the stage for a draft‑centric narrative.
Edge rusher Wendell Gregory emerged as a freshmen sensation, earning Big 12 Freshman of the Year honors in 2025. His relentless pass‑rush skill set positions him as one of the conference’s top edge threats, and scouts are already tracking his potential to become a three‑technique standout at the next level.
Quarterback Avery Johnson’s Development
Quarterback Avery Johnson brings athleticism and a strong arm, but his performance under pressure has been inconsistent. Coaches are emphasizing mechanics and decision‑making in the offseason, hoping a more composed Johnson will translate into the accuracy and poise that NFL teams demand.
Defensive Back Adrian Maddox and the Secondary Boost
After a standout 2024 campaign at UAB, safety Adrian Maddox could anchor Kansas State’s secondary if he returns to his previous form. His ball‑hawking instincts and tackling ability make him a candidate for a starting role that could elevate the defense’s overall draft profile.
Line and Skill Position Depth
Guard Tanner Morley, a 6‑foot‑6, 320‑pound transfer from Colorado State, is working his way back from a knee injury that limited his 2023 campaign. His size and experience in the trenches add depth to the offensive line, while tight end Garrett Oakley, a red‑zone specialist with a knack for catching touchdowns, must curb a team‑high drop rate to solidify his draft stock.
Offensive tackle John Pastore finished the previous season with just one sack allowed in 360 pass‑blocking snaps, a statistic that has drawn praise from NFL evaluators. Projected as one of the Big 12’s premier tackles, his consistency in protecting the quarterback’s blind side could see him rise into the top tier of draft prospects.
Running back Joe Jackson showed flashes of explosiveness at the end of last season, and if he can sustain that momentum, he may add another dimension to Kansas State’s offensive arsenal that appeals to NFL scouts.
The Bigger Picture
Beyond individual talent, the presence of Collin Klein as head coach appears to be a catalyst, encouraging players across positions to aim higher and showcase NFL‑ready skills. The confluence of experience, development, and exposure could turn Kansas State into a pipeline for draft‑ready talent in the coming years.