It was clear heading into the 2026 season that Collin Klein’s reputation would carry some weight but the extent of his influence has still caught many by surprise. That growing pull is now making itself felt on the recruiting trail, and the latest rankings are beginning to show it.
Wildcats soar in updated recruiting rankings
The newest 247Sports team recruiting rankings revealed two key takeaways: Kansas State sits at No. 19, while UCLA made the biggest leap upward. For Wildcats fans, the latter is far from the main story.
To understand Kansas State’s rise, you have to look at the recent recruiting moves. And that surge starts with one name: quarterback commit Cam Kruse.
As of this writing, Kruse pledged to Kansas State just a week ago. Originally from Olathe, Kansas, he wrapped up his junior season at Led Page High School in Tennessee with a run to the Class 5A state title.
Kruse threw for more than 2,200 yards and 35 touchdowns, adding 376 rushing yards. He picked the Wildcats over Big 12 foe West Virginia, as well as Miami, Northwestern, and Memphis.
But here’s the kicker: he’s not alone. Other key additions include offensive tackle Oliver Miller and four-star linebacker Lawson McGraw.
Building for life after Avery Johnson
Recruiting rankings aren’t just about the numbers. And while Kansas State enjoys the second-best class in the conference, the focus is really on the program’s long-term future.
Avery Johnson is set to finish his eligibility after the 2026 season the same year starting center Sam Hecht departs for the NFL Draft. Prospects like Kruse and Miller could eventually step into similar roles if their development continues.
At its core, that starts with elite recruiting, something Klein is already excelling at. The next step is getting his recruits on campus and making a historic run in his first season leading the Wildcats.
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