Here's One Underrated Name Kansas State Football Fans Should Look Out For
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Kansas State football has had a lot of names lauded as potential game-wreckers for this upcoming season.
But the latest was a surprise. CBS Sports recently published an article highlighting the top potential Big 12 freshmen, and four-star cornerback Josiah Vilmael was the Wildcats' pick.
"Like most freshman defensive backs, Vilmael's clearest path to early playing time will likely come on special teams. Still, he's an important piece of Kansas State's future at cornerback," the article wrote. "The former Oklahoma State commit from Richmond, Texas, will have the opportunity to learn behind several experienced veterans before taking on a larger role under first-year coach Collin Klein. His long-term upside makes him one of the Wildcats' more intriguing defensive newcomers."
Vilmael attended Fort Bend Travis High School in Richmond, TX. Kansas State beat out programs like Texas, Arizona, and Baylor to acquire him. He committed to the program on Dec. 5, originally a three-star, but has since been bumped up in rank. Vilmael also ran track and field in high school, logging 10.66 in the 100m and 21.57 in the 200m, respectively, during his junior season.
His initial conversation with coach Collin Klein solidified his decision to choose Manhattan, KS. He believes the program legend can help revamp a team seeking redemption after a disappointing 2025 campaign. The Wildcats finished with just six wins after being poised for a conference title and a potential postseason spot.
"I already know Coach Klein is gonna come in and set a high bar, especially because of what he’s done there," Vilmael said in an interview with KStateRoundtable. "For me, it’s just about bringing that discipline, helping the guys around me, and being able to take constructive criticism from teammates."
Vilmael's addition will be crucial to a Wildcats defense that disappointed last season. It was arguably the worst of the past decade, with opposing offenses nearly running over Kansas State every week. While the issue was mainly in run defense, it doesn't hurt to strengthen the secondary.
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