Kansas State Lands Key Signing Day Flip Despite Coaching Shake-Up
MANHATTAN - Even with the bombshell news of head coach Chris Klieman stepping down on early signing day, Kansas State didn’t flinch. In fact, the Wildcats managed to pull off a recruiting win - flipping three-star athlete Kaprice Keith from Iowa State.
Keith, a 6-foot-2, 205-pound standout from Bellevue West (Nebraska), made it official on Wednesday, announcing his commitment to K-State via Instagram. He was in Manhattan over the weekend for the Wildcats’ win against Colorado - and that visit clearly made an impression.
Rated as a three-star prospect by the 247Sports Composite, Keith brings versatility and size to the table. While he’s listed as an athlete, his frame and skill set give Kansas State some intriguing options depending on how they want to use him at the next level. Whether it’s on offense or defense, Keith has the kind of build that can be molded into a key contributor down the line.
And he wasn’t the only flip the Wildcats secured. Kansas State also added a commitment from a defensive tackle out of Iowa Western Community College, who had previously been pledged to Washington State. That’s two signing day swings - and two solid connections made.
What’s maybe most impressive here is the Wildcats’ ability to hold the line in the middle of what could have been a chaotic day. News of Klieman’s retirement could’ve sent shockwaves through the recruiting class, but as of Wednesday afternoon, no signees have backed out. That’s a testament to the program’s stability - and likely a nod to who’s expected to take over.
All signs point to Texas A&M offensive coordinator and former Kansas State quarterback Collin Klein stepping in as Klieman’s successor. Klein is a familiar face in Manhattan, and his expected promotion likely helped ease concerns for recruits and their families during a potentially turbulent moment.
So while the headlines may be dominated by Klieman’s departure, Kansas State quietly put together a strong signing day - flipping two recruits and keeping its class intact. That’s the kind of resilience that speaks volumes, especially in a sport where momentum is everything.