Kansas State pulls off stunning recruiting upset, lands 3-Star OL over SEC rival

Bennett Frasier commits to the Cats recruiting class on Wednesday
Sep 13, 2024; Manhattan, Kansas, USA; Kansas State Wildcats head coach Chris Klieman looks at the scoreboard during the fourth quarter against the Arizona Wildcats at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-Imagn Images
Sep 13, 2024; Manhattan, Kansas, USA; Kansas State Wildcats head coach Chris Klieman looks at the scoreboard during the fourth quarter against the Arizona Wildcats at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-Imagn Images | Scott Sewell-Imagn Images

Kansas State won a key recruiting battle in the trenches, earning a commitment from three-star offensive lineman Bennett Frasier, who turned down offers from Missouri and Northwestern to join the Wildcats' 2026 class.

Frasier, a 6-foot-5, 260-pound prospect out of Kirksville High School (Missouri), announced his commitment on social media Wednesday after an official visit to Manhattan over the weekend.

“Blessed to announce that I’ve decided to end my recruitment process and commit to Kansas State University! A quick thank you to my family, my friends, and my teammates. #EMAW,” Frasier posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Rated the No. 98 offensive lineman nationally and the No. 10 player in his state by the 247Sports Composite, Frasier brings a physical edge to the line.

He’s known for his strong base, aggressive hands, and finishing ability in the run game. His mobility and frame project well for both tackle and interior roles in Kansas State’s power-heavy scheme.

Frasier is the ninth overall commitment in Kansas State’s 2026 class and the fifth offensive lineman, joining Oliver Miller, Keegan Collins, Justin Morales, and LaMarcus Barber.

His recruitment began under former offensive line coach Conor Riley, who made the initial offer before departing for the Dallas Cowboys. New OL coach Brian Lepak picked up the relationship and ultimately sealed the deal.

Frasier’s pledge adds to Kansas State’s effort to reload its offensive front. The Wildcats lost both starting tackles from the 2024 season—Easton Kilty entered the NFL Draft, and Carver Willis transferred to Washington.

The interior line returns with experience in center Sam Hecht and guard Taylor Poitier. Veteran Andrew Leingang is also back. The group will be bolstered by transfers Amos Talalele (Cal), George Fitzpatrick (Ohio State), Terrence Enos (Michigan State), and J.B. Nelson (Penn State). Redshirt freshmen John Pastore and Gus Hawkins are expected to compete for snaps.

Kansas State wrapped up the 2024 season at 9–4 (5–4 Big 12), ending the year with a 44–41 win over Rutgers in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl.

With Frasier’s commitment, the Wildcats continue to build a formidable offensive line ready to compete at the highest level in the coming seasons.