Two Former Kansas State Football Stars Continue To Be Lauded In New Homes

Kansas State football fans are likely getting caught up in the hype of their 2027 class recruits amassing to be one of the country's best units.

But it'll be a while until they actually get to see them. In the meantime, they have 2026 to get through first, which is projected to be a mixed bag in its own right with so much change. Various news outlets constantly remind Wildcats fans who they lost in the transfer portal ahead of the season, and one of them struck once again.

ESPN did a story ranking the top 100 newcomers across the nation, classifying the best portal additions. The first was Tobi Osunsanmi, shockingly placing at No. 18 on the list. He joins the national champions after a career year.

"Adding Osunsanmi will help Indiana reload for its national title defense," the article wrote. "The Hoosiers lost Mikail Kamara, Stephen Daley and Kellan Wyatt, creating a clear need along the defensive front. Osunsanmi is an ideal plug-and-play addition. The versatile pass rusher should translate fluidly to defensive coordinator Bryant Haines' scheme."

Last season, Osunsanmi had 20 total tackles, four sacks, and six tackles for loss in his six games. He was on track for a monster season until his midseason injury against Baylor, which sidelined him the rest of the year. Still, Osunsanmi helped anchor a defensive line that remained relatively competitive in the conference despite overall defensive regression. He now joins an Indiana team that just lost a few of its main edge rushers, trying to help it maintain its status as a juggernaut.

The next was wide receiver Jayce Brown, quarterback Avery Johnson's primary weapon over the past two seasons. ESPN ranked him No. 54 after his move to LSU.

"Brown, who had 1,972 receiving yards over three seasons at Kansas State, provides much-needed proven production and experience," the article wrote. "He projects as an important complementary piece for Leavitt alongside tight end Trey'Dez Green."

During his time at Kansas State, Brown had 115 receptions for 1,972 yards and 13 touchdowns, making him one of the speediest receivers in the Big 12. Last year was the peak illustration of his individual impact, as he accumulated 41 catches for 712 yards, 116 rushing yards, and six total touchdowns. Brown will be sorely missed in Kansas State's offensive game plan, as he was their primary downfield weapon.

It's up to coach Collin Klein and his staff to find the next big replacements for players like Brown and Osunsanmi. The Wildcats kick off their 2026 season against Nicholls on Sep. 5 at 7:00 p.m.