From Texas to the Little Apple: K-State nabs dynamic 2026 weapon

Kansas State picked up its first commitment of the weekend following official visits, landing a pledge from 3-star athlete Tanner West out of Katy, Texas.

West, a versatile RB/WR in the 2026 class, announced his decision Sunday on social media.

“Excited to announce my commitment to @KStateFB as the next step for my athletic & academic career,” West wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Thanks to my family, coaches, & teammates who helped me along the way! All the glory to GOD! Go Cats 💜! #EMAW”

Excited to announce my commitment to @KStateFB as the next step for my athletic & academic career! Thanks to my family,coaches,& teammates who helped me along the way! All the glory to GOD! Go cats💜! #EMAW @CoachKli @_CoachMattWells @CoachAnderson15 @spedbraet @JHSWarriors_FB pic.twitter.com/hwEn7xO9Tc
— Tanner West (@tanner_west5) June 1, 2025

Listed at 6-foot, 185 pounds, West was a first-team All-District selection in Texas 19-6A last season.

He posted 1,228 total yards and 13 touchdowns as a junior, carrying the ball 105 times and catching 30 passes. He’s expected to play running back in Manhattan.

Kansas State offered West in February. He held additional offers from rival Kansas, SMU, Rice and Tulsa, but canceled all remaining visits after committing to the Wildcats.

A key weapon in Katy's high-powered offense, West lined up at wildcat QB, slot receiver, and running back. His film shows a mix of vision, versatility and breakaway speed that fits well in K-State’s system. He becomes the sixth commitment in the Wildcats’ 2026 class.

Kansas State has depth at running back heading into 2025, with Dylan Edwards and Joe Jackson expected to carry the load. Transfer Antonio Martin Jr. also adds experience. Still, with roster turnover always a factor, West gives the Wildcats another dynamic option moving forward.

K-State is coming off a 9–4 campaign capped by a 44–41 bowl win over Rutgers. The Wildcats also saw standout RB DJ Giddens drafted in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft after back-to-back 1,200-yard seasons.