Kansas State’s freshman class has drawn plenty of attention heading into the season, but one of the quieter names on the list is starting to stand out: four-star cornerback Josiah Vilmael.
CBS Sports recently singled out Vilmael as the Wildcats’ top potential Big 12 freshman, noting that his fastest route to the field likely comes on special teams. Even so, the piece made clear that Kansas State sees real long-term value in him at cornerback.
"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, who played at Fort Bend Travis High School in Richmond, TX, ended up choosing Kansas State over Texas, Arizona, and Baylor. He committed on Dec. 5 as a three-star prospect, then later saw his ranking rise. He also brought track speed to the table in high school, running 10.66 in the 100m and 21.57 in the 200m during his junior season.
What helped seal the deal was his first conversation with Collin Klein. Vilmael said that exchange gave him confidence in where the program was headed as Kansas State tries to bounce back from a 2025 season that fell short of expectations. The Wildcats finished with six wins after entering the year with hopes of a conference title and a postseason berth.
"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."
That’s why Vilmael matters so much for this defense. Kansas State’s unit was rough last season, and the run defense in particular was a major problem. Adding another athletic piece to the secondary won’t fix everything by itself, but it’s the kind of move that gives the Wildcats a better chance to clean things up.
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