NOT THE STARS WE SIGNED: TWO TOP KANSAS STATE WILDCATS’ 5-STAR SIGNEES STRUGGLING BADLY IN CAMP — ‘IT’S LIKE THEY BOTH FORGOT HOW TO PLAY’
Kansas State fans entered preseason camp buzzing with anticipation over the arrival of two highly coveted 5-star recruits, billed as program-changing talents. These players, both offensive standouts in high school, were expected to make an immediate impact for the Wildcats in the upcoming season. Instead, what’s unfolding on the practice fields in Manhattan has been described by insiders as “worrisome” — and even “baffling.”
According to multiple reports from within the program, both signees have looked completely out of rhythm. One source bluntly remarked, “It’s like they both forgot how to play.” Missed assignments, dropped passes, mental errors, and visible frustration have been recurring themes during camp. While physical talent is not in question — these players still flash bursts of the speed and athleticism that made them recruiting darlings — their lack of execution has left coaches scratching their heads.
The struggles have sparked heated conversations among the fan base. Some argue it’s simply a case of adjustment; transitioning from dominating high school competition to the demands of Big 12 football can be a steep learning curve. Others fear this could be a case of players who were overhyped by recruiting services, now facing the reality of a higher level of play.
Coaches, however, remain publicly optimistic. Head Coach Chris Klieman downplayed the panic, noting that “camp is about learning, adapting, and improving,” while reiterating confidence that both athletes will find their footing before the season opener. Still, behind closed doors, there’s a sense of urgency to help these young stars settle in and rediscover the form that earned them their 5-star status.
For now, Kansas State fans are holding their breath, hoping that what they’re seeing in August is nothing more than early growing pains — and not a sign of trouble for the Wildcats’ highly touted recruiting class. If these two can shake off their slump, the hype train could get back on track quickly. But until then, the question lingers: did the Wildcats truly land the stars they thought they did?
