Kansas State continues to reshape its backfield through the transfer portal, and the latest addition brings both power and potential. Former Memphis running back Makari Bodiford has officially committed to the Wildcats, becoming the third transfer back to join the program this offseason.
Bodiford, who announced his decision via Instagram, lines up alongside fellow newcomers Rodney Fields (Oklahoma State) and Jay Harris (Oregon), forming a revamped running back corps that also returns standout Joe Jackson. With this mix of experience, upside, and depth, the Wildcats are clearly building for versatility and competition in the backfield.
At 5-foot-11 and 222 pounds, Bodiford brings a physical edge to the group. Though his time at Memphis was limited-just four games in his sophomore campaign to preserve his redshirt-he showed flashes of what he can offer.
In 11 total games over two seasons, he logged 37 carries for 170 yards and four touchdowns. But the raw numbers only tell part of the story.
Dig a little deeper, and Bodiford's efficiency jumps out. In 2024, he averaged 4.8 yards after contact-a stat that speaks to his ability to finish runs and fight through initial defenders.
He also broke off three runs of 10-plus yards and forced five missed tackles on just 37 attempts. That’s not just decent production in limited action-it’s the kind of tape that gets coaches’ attention when looking for a short-yardage or goal-line specialist.
Bodiford saw just 43 offensive snaps during his time at Memphis, but he made them count. Now, with three years of eligibility remaining, he’s got time to carve out a more prominent role in Manhattan. Whether he becomes a bruising complement to the more explosive backs or a go-to option in tight situations, his skill set fills a specific need.
Coming out of high school, Bodiford was a three-star recruit and ranked as the No. 115 running back in the 2024 class. He drew interest from Cincinnati and more than a dozen Group of Five programs. While details around his recruitment post-transfer are limited, his decision to land at Kansas State speaks to a mutual fit.
With four capable backs now in the room, including Jackson, Fields, Harris, and Bodiford, the Wildcats have options-and that's exactly what offensive coordinator Collin Klein seems to be aiming for. The competition for touches will be fierce, but that’s the kind of environment that elevates a position group.
Bodiford may not arrive with a long highlight reel, but he brings the kind of physicality and upside that could make him a valuable piece in Kansas State’s evolving offense. Keep an eye on how he’s used-especially in short-yardage and red zone packages-because his role might grow faster than expected.