In Manhattan, the buzz around Kansas State is palpable, and it’s all thanks to Linkon Cure’s decision to stick with the Wildcats under new head coach Collin Klein. Cure, a five-star tight end and the highest-rated prospect in the school's history, made his intentions clear early on. Shortly after Chris Klieman announced his retirement, Cure posted a nostalgic photo on Instagram of himself as a child with Klein at a football camp, signaling his commitment to the program.
Now, it’s up to Klein to harness Cure’s immense potential. “He’s a worker; he attacks everything that he does,” Klein noted. Cure’s dedication to mastering the nuances of the game has been evident, and it’s something Klein is excited to build on.
Cure’s freshman year was a rollercoaster. Joining the team late due to a spring semester delay and then dealing with a preseason injury, he managed to play in nine games, starting twice and notching six catches for 37 yards. Injuries to Kansas State’s wide receivers thrust Cure into a wide receiver role more than initially planned, seeing him take 120 snaps out wide, 13 from the slot, and only six from the line.
This season, expect a shift. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 245 pounds, Cure is set to primarily play tight end, though his versatility will still be a key asset.
“What he gives you in that position is the flexibility to line him up all over the field,” Klein explained. Cure will still see action in two-tight-end sets and other formations, providing the Wildcats with a dynamic offensive weapon.
Kansas State’s spring roster lists three tight ends, with more joining in the summer. Garrett Oakley, a senior, returns after leading the team with six touchdown receptions last season.
Will Anciaux, who caught three touchdown passes in 2024 and one in 2025, is also in the mix. Lawson McGraw will join the squad later.
Cure is expected to play a multifaceted role, acting as a Y-receiver in some formations and an F-receiver in others. There will be instances where he and Oakley line up together on the offensive line, creating mismatches for defenses.
Cure’s work ethic has impressed Klein, who sees him as a five-star talent both on and off the field. As the No. 30 prospect in the 2025 class, Cure has shown remarkable physical development, boasting the highest muscle-mass gain and most fat loss among his teammates since offseason workouts began.
It’s only a matter of time before Cure gets to showcase his hard work on the field. “To be able to put that together is really impressive, right?”
Klein remarked. “He’s already a very elite athlete, so it’s a credit to his work ethic.”
With Cure’s commitment and talent, Kansas State fans have plenty to be excited about this coming season.