Former Kansas State running back Dylan Edwards is settling into his new school.
The former Wildcats star-turned-public enemy expanded his villain role by going to the program's No. 1 rival: Kansas. Edwards said he's just happy to be in the program and get a fresh start elsewhere.
"They gave me the opportunity to come here and be myself, and they recruited me really hard," Edwards said to reporters after Saturday's practice. "Coach [Andy Kotelnicki], coach [Jonathan] Wallace, and really all the coaches welcomed me with open arms, and that's why I'm here."
When asked about how his switch would contribute to the longtime in-state rivalry, Edwards embraced the villainy of being a star for the Wildcats' nemesis.
"I knew it was gonna be different, and I like to be different. So why not? That's why I'm here," Edwards said.
Edwards was anticipated to be one of Kansas State's next top running backs, following the footsteps of legends like DJ Giddens and Deuce Vaughn. Alas, he suffered an injury in Week 0 against Iowa State and never quite recovered. Edwards rushed just 34 times for 205 yards and two touchdowns, and caught three passes for 17 yards. His absence hurt the run game, which in turn shifted the offensive look and game plan.
Edwards was detested by many in Manhattan, KS, who believed he gave up on the team or wasn't playing to his full potential. He transferred after playing in just two full games, heading to the Jayhawks to fill the roles of several star contributors departing. After nearly a year without playing, Edwards is trying to get re-acclimated to the role.
"I’m still trying to get my full confidence back," Edwards said. "Every day I feel like I’m going up, and I’m getting it back. Hopefully, it shows this year."
Still, he's embracing the pressure of being a star rusher again.
"I feel great. I’m ready to play," Edwards said. "I’m just happy, and that’s something that’s different. I’m very happy here."
Kansas coach Lance Leipold is happy to have Edwards on board as well.
"Dylan is a really talented football player," Leipold said. "He’s come in here wanting to fit in, and he’s done a great job not trying to come in and do anything over the top."
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