Chris Klieman and the Kansas State Wildcats were initially passed over by linebacker Jayshawn Ross when he chose Alabama over K-State out of Liberty North High School. Despite this early setback, Ross has now decided to join the Wildcats. On Tuesday, he announced that he would transfer to Kansas State after spending his freshman season in the SEC with Alabama. This decision marks a significant opportunity for the Wildcats to add a highly talented defender to their roster.
Ross, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 220 pounds, is a versatile player capable of making an impact in multiple roles. He is expected to take on a hybrid position with Kansas State, where he could line up as both a linebacker and defensive end, with a primary focus on pass rushing. This flexibility gives the Wildcats a dynamic option on defense, allowing them to be creative with his positioning on the field. Defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman will likely find various ways to utilize Ross’ skill set once he joins the team.
Although Ross did not record any statistics during his freshman season at Alabama, the Wildcats were already very familiar with his talent. K-State had recruited him as a four-star prospect, and they were well aware of his potential. His previous recruitment by Kansas State shows that the coaching staff believes in his abilities, and they are excited to add him to their defensive lineup.
Ross became a top priority for Klieman and his coaching staff when they began exploring options in the transfer portal. Given his ability to contribute in multiple defensive positions, they saw him as an important addition to the team. The Wildcats are looking to strengthen their defense, and Ross’ combination of size, speed, and versatility makes him a valuable asset.
With his commitment to Kansas State, Ross is expected to bring immediate impact to the Wildcats’ defense. His transfer from Alabama to K-State not only adds depth to the roster but also gives Kansas State a player with SEC experience. As he transitions into his new role with the Wildcats, Ross is poised to be a key figure in the defensive scheme and will be one to watch in the upcoming season.
