Kansas State Wildcats fans have reason to celebrate. The program has officially secured edge rusher from Oklahoma State, a four star talent who immediately upgrades the team’s defense and fills a void that has long been the Wildcats’ most pressing need. Gregory’s arrival isn’t just another addition it’s the transfer that could redefine Kansas State’s defensive identity for the 2026 season.
Wendell Gregory comes to Manhattan after a standout season at Oklahoma State, posting 4 sacks and forcing a fumble in 2025. Despite his team’s struggles in conference play, Gregory consistently stood out, demonstrating a rare combination of power, speed, and situational awareness. His experience in the Big 12 ensures he’s ready to make an immediate impact against high-level competition.
Joining Gregory on the defensive front are Elijah Hill, Jayden Bryant, De’Arieun Hicks, Austin Ramsey, and Kamari Burns. While Gregory leads the group, each of these additions brings depth and versatility to the Wildcats’ line, giving Kansas State the kind of rotation that can pressure quarterbacks and shut down run games throughout the season.
At linebacker, the Wildcats added Jacobi Oliphant Jr. from Oklahoma State and Mekhi Mason from Louisiana Tech. Oliphant recorded 27 tackles and 2 sacks last season, while Mason tallied 68 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and earned Conference USA Defensive Player of the Week honors. Both bring proven production and reinforce a unit that needed a boost after losses in the transfer portal.
Special teams also received attention with the arrivals of long snapper Jaxson Duffield, kicker Robert Hammond III, and punter Dylan Davidson. Duffield was ranked the nation’s 10th-best long snapper in 2025, Hammond can hit from 50 yards, and Davidson joins from Division II Emporia State to provide depth in the kicking game.
With Wendell Gregory at the forefront, these additions signal a defensive overhaul for Kansas State. The Wildcats now boast a unit capable of turning games around, creating pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and shoring up weaknesses that have been exposed in previous seasons. For fans, it’s a promising start to what could be one of Kansas State’s most competitive campaigns in years.