K-State DE Kian Payne enters transfer portal

Kansas State redshirt freshman defensive end Kian Payne has entered the NCAA transfer portal, according to multiple reports on social media.

Payne, listed at 6-foot-4 and originally from Overland Park, Kansas, played high school football at St. Thomas Aquinas, where he developed into a standout defensive lineman.

As a recruit, he earned a three-star rating and was ranked the No. 10 overall player in the state of Kansas by 247Sports, with an overall recruiting score of 86.

He committed to Kansas State over offers from several notable programs, including North Dakota State, Wisconsin, and Colorado State. However, he redshirted during the 2024 season and did not appear in any games or record any stats for the Wildcats.

Payne’s decision to transfer comes as NCAA programs across the country are reportedly facing roster limitations and making adjustments ahead of the 2025 season.

His departure also marks the second member of K-State’s 2024 recruiting class to leave the program without playing in a game, following wide receiver Trae Davis.

Last year, the team finished 9-4 overall and 5-4 in conference play, despite being picked as a preseason favorite. They defeated Rutgers 44-41 in their bowl game on Dec. 26.

With Payne’s departure, the Wildcats will look to younger players and incoming recruits to fill depth on the defensive line heading into 2025.