Just weeks before the season kicks off, K-State’s hopes at left tackle are clouded by concern for George Fitzpatrick, who is recovering from a medical emergency suffered during summer practice.
The 6-foot-6, 309-pound junior transferred from Ohio State this offseason and was recently named the Wildcats’ starting left tackle by head coach Chris Klieman at Big 12 Media Days.
“George had a medical situation to which the training staff quickly responded,” the team said in a statement. “He is improving every day, and we appreciate all who have cared for and supported him.”
DEVELOPING
— Jason Kinander (@WIBWJason) July 21, 2025
K-State OL George Fitzpatrick suffered a medical emergency during practice last week. The team gave a statement to @WIBWsports.
“He is improving every day….and we appreciate all who have cared for and supported him,”https://t.co/dlFxEr1qEz
Fitzpatrick played in all 16 games for the national champion Buckeyes in 2024, logging 84 offensive snaps and contributing on special teams. His most active game came against Western Michigan, when he played 22 snaps. He reunites at K-State with former OSU teammate and current linebacker Gabe Powers.
Another former Buckeye, offensive lineman Ian Moore, posted a call for prayers on social media Saturday night.
I know it’s a bit late and people might not receive this, but I just wanted yall to keep our former buckeye George Fitzpatrick in your prayers. I’m not going to go deep into it for respects of his family, but please pray for a speedy recovery and no complications. God Bless.
— Ian Moore (@IanMoore2024) July 20, 2025
Fitzpatrick’s health scare comes as K-State rebuilds its offensive front. The Wildcats lost both starting tackles — Easton Kilty to the NFL Draft and Carver Willis via transfer to Washington.
“I’m super excited,” Fitzpatrick said in February. “There’s a lot I need to work on and a lot to develop, and I’m excited about the opportunity.”
The interior line returns experience, led by center Sam Hecht and veteran guard Taylor Poitier. Andrew Leingang brings versatility, while transfers Amos Talalele (Cal), Terrence Enos (Michigan State), and J.B. Nelson (Penn State) boost depth. Redshirt freshmen John Pastore and Gus Hawkins are also in the mix.
Quarterback Avery Johnson returns after a breakout 2024 season, surrounded by a dynamic group of playmakers including Dylan Edwards, Joe Jackson, and Jayce Brown.
On defense, veterans Austin Romaine and V.J. Payne anchor a unit loaded with experience.
The national buzz is growing. K-State ranks No. 12 in USA Today’s preseason Top 25, No. 16 in Joel Klatt’s post-spring rankings, and No. 21 in ESPN’s Football Power Index — the highest mark for any Big 12 program.
The Wildcats open the 2025 season on Saturday, Aug. 23, against Iowa State in Dublin, Ireland.
After a 9–4 finish in 2024, including a wild 44–41 bowl win over Rutgers, K-State enters 2025 with Big 12 title hopes and Playoff ambitions — but for now, all eyes are on Fitzpatrick’s recovery, and the team is rallying behind its left tackle.