47. Kansas State University Best Players of Alltime

Founded in 1863, Kansas State University (KSU) is the state’s oldest public institution of higher education. Located in Manhattan, KSU boasts a rich history and tradition as an academic powerhouse with its commitment to providing outstanding teaching and research opportunities for students from all walks of life.

The student body consists of 24,766 individuals who come together to create a unique learning environment that encourages collaboration among peers and faculty alike. With over 250 areas study available across 10 colleges and 65 departments, KSU has something for everyone – making it one of the most diverse universities in the Midwest region.

1. Jordy Nelson

Wide receiver

Career

• Super Bowl champion (XLV)
• NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2016)
• Second-team All-Pro (2014)
• Pro Bowl (2014)
• NFL receiving touchdowns leader (2016)
• Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
• Consensus All-American (2007)
• First-team All-Big 12 (2007)

Jordy Nelson is a wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers and was drafted in 2008. He played college football at Kansas State, where he set numerous receiving records.

After being drafted by the Packers, Nelson had an impressive rookie season and became one of their most important players. In 2013, Nelson suffered a torn ACL that kept him out for the majority of the year, but he came back to have another successful season.

During his time with Green Bay, Nelson has won two Super Bowls (2011 and 2017) and received multiple awards including NFL MVP in 2011 and All-Pro honors four times (2008–11). 

On February 24th, 2018 it was announced that Jordy would be leaving Green Bay after 11 seasons to join Oakland Raiders as their new receiver.

Jordy Nelson is a five-time Pro Bowler and two-time NFL receiving touchdowns leader. He was drafted by the Packers in 2008 and has since made an impact on both sides of the ball, as a receiver and returner. 

In his 13 seasons with the team, he's led them to three playoff appearances, including back-to-back NFC Championships in 2010 and 2011.

He will be remembered most fondly for his role in Green Bay's Super Bowl victory over Seattle in 2014 - becoming just the second player ever to win multiple rings with two different teams (the other being Jerry Rice). 

The 33-year-old announced his retirement from professional football earlier this year after recording 1,519 yards and 10 touchdowns through 16 games during 2018 season.

Also Played For: green bay packers, madden nfl 18

2. Darren Sproles

Running back

Career

• Super Bowl champion (LII)
• Second-team All-Pro (2014)
• 3× Pro Bowl (2014–2016)
• San Diego Chargers 50th Anniversary Team
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team[a]
• First-team All-American (2003)
• First-team All-Big 12 (2003)
• 2× Second-team All-Big 12 (2002, 2004)

Darren Sproles is a personnel consultant for the Philadelphia Eagles. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the fourth round of the 2005 NFL Draft and played for them from 2005 to 2010.

He signed with the New Orleans Saints in 2011 and stayed with them until 2013 when he was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles. In 2014, he became one of only four players ever to be named an All-Pro three times (alongside LaDainian Tomlinson, Jason Witten and Tony Romo).

Darren Sproles has also been voted into five Pro Bowls during his career so far – most notably as a member of both The Saints (2011) and Eagles (2014-2019). 

Darren Sproles is a versatile running back who has played for several teams in the NFL. Darren was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2008 and went on to play for them until 2020.

He has also spent time with the San Diego Chargers, New Orleans Saints, and Dallas Cowboys during his career. 

Darren has been a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time Second-team All-Pro player, while he holds the record for most all-purpose yards in a season (2,696). In 2018 he won his first Super Bowl title with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Also Played For: los angeles chargers, san diego chargers

3. Steve Grogan

Career

• NFL passing touchdowns leader (1979)
• New England Patriots All-1970s Team
• New England Patriots All-1980s Team
• New England Patriots 35th Anniversary Team
• New England Patriots Hall of Fame
• Kansas State Wildcats No. 11 retired

Grogan was a four-time Pro Bowler and led the Patriots to three Super Bowl titles in his career. He is considered one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history and is remembered as one of New England's all-time greats.

Grogan retired after 1990 with more than 25,000 passing yards and 200 touchdowns to his name. 

Grogan currently resides in Texas and continues to play golf regularly at local clubs. Steve Grogan is a hall of Famer and one of the greatest quarterbacks in Patriots history.

He led New England to three Super Bowls and won two, as well as earning MVP honors both times. Steve Grogan was known for his poise under pressure, completing more than 60% of his passes even when the stakes were highest. 

After leaving New England following the 1993 season, he had a successful career with Kansas State, winning back-to-back championships in 1998 and 1999 while leading them to four bowl games in five seasons overall.

Also Played For: new england patriots

4. Tyler Lockett

Wide receiver

Career

• First-team All-Pro (2015)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2016, 2017)
• Pro Bowl (2015)
• NFL kickoff return yards leader (2017)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2015)
• Jet Award (2014)
• 2× Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Year (2013, 2014)
• Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year (2011)
• 2× First-team All-American (2011, 2014)
• 2× First-team All-Big 12 (2013, 2014)
• Second-team All-Big 12 (2011)
• Kansas State Wildcats Ring of Honour

Tyler Lockett was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft. He played college football at Kansas State and has since been with the Seattle Seahawks.

In 2018, he had his best season yet as a Seahawk, recording over 1,000 receiving yards for the first time in his career. Despite this success, Tyler Lockett is not without controversy as he has been accused of cheating during games once or twice throughout his career.

Regardless of these allegations, Tyler Lockett remains one of Seattle's most important players and will continue to be so for years to come Tyler Lockett was one of the most electric players in the NFL during his time with the Kansas State Wildcats. 

He had a Pro Bowl appearance and two Second-team All-Pro selections under his belt by the age of 24 when he entered the NFL draft in 2015.

His speed, athleticism, and elusiveness made him an extremely difficult player for defenders to deal with both on offense and special teams - which is partly why he led all returners in yards per kick (22.1) last season. 

With Jimmy Garoppolo now quarterbacking for San Francisco, Lockett will have plenty of opportunities to make plays downfield this upcoming season - especially if Marquise Goodwin isn't able to stay healthy again.

Also Played For: seattle seahawks, fantasy playoff

5. Larry Brown

Running back

Career

• NFL Most Valuable Player (1972)
• Bert Bell Award (1972)
• UPI NFC Player of the Year (1972)
• NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1972)
• 2× First-team All-Pro (1970, 1972)
• Second-team All-Pro (1971)
• 4× Pro Bowl (1969–1972)
• NFL rushing yards leader (1970)
• 80 Greatest Redskins
• Washington Commanders Ring of Fame

Larry Brown was a running back for the Washington Redskins from 1969-1976. He played in seven Pro Bowls and averaged over 1,000 yards from scrimmage every season he was with the team.

Brown is considered one of the greatest running backs to ever play in the NFL and his number 43 remains retired by both the Redskins and Kansas State University. 

In 2003, Brown was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of their class of 2002.

Larry currently resides in Clairton, Pennsylvania where he works as an ESPN commentator on college football matches Larry Brown was a Hall of Fame running back and head coach in the National Football League. 

He played for the Redskins from 1969 to 1972, winning two Pro Bowls and becoming the team's first-ever Offensive Player of the Year in 1972.

Brown then became head coach of the Browns from 1973 to 1978, leading them to four consecutive playoff appearances but no championships. 

In 1979 he took over as head coach of UCLA where he would stay until 1994, amassing an overall record of 274–154 (.671). 

After retiring from coaching, Brown served as president/CEO of Adidas International until his retirement in 2015 at age 80 years old.

Also Played For: washington commanders, running back redskins

6. Michael Beasley

Power forward

Career

• CBA champion (2019)
• CBA Foreign MVP (2016)
• 2× CBA All-Star (2015, 2016)
• 2× CBA All-Star Game MVP (2015, 2016)
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (2009)
• Consensus first-team All-American (2008)
• USBWA National Freshman of the Year (2008)
• Pete Newell Big Man Award (2008)
• Big 12 Player of the Year (2008)
• First-team All-Big 12 (2008)
• NCAA rebounding leader (2008)
• McDonald's All-American Game MVP (2007)
• Second-team Parade All-American (2006)

Michael Beasley is an American power forward and small forward who has played in the NBA since 2008. He was drafted by the Miami Heat with the 2nd overall pick in the 2008 NBA draft and spent four seasons with them before moving to Minnesota Timberwolves in 2013.

In 2016 he joined the Memphis Grizzlies but was traded to Brooklyn Nets two years later. He announced his retirement from professional basketball on October 10th, 2018 after spending one final season with the Atlanta Hawks.

Michael Beasley was one of the most high-profile players in the NBA during his time on the court.

He had a very successful career, winning numerous awards and accolades along the way. Michael Beasley is remembered for his powerful dunks and alley-oops, as well as his long shooting range from beyond the arc. 

Michael Beasley's off-court troubles have often overshadowed what was otherwise an accomplished basketball career. However, he has since cleaned up his act and moved on to a new team in 2019.

Also Played For: china basketball league, chinese basketball association

7. Josh Freeman

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Career

• High school: Grandview, (Grandview, Missouri)
• College: Kansas State (2006–2008)
• NFL Draft: 2009 / Round: 1 / Pick: 17
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2009–2013), Minnesota Vikings (2013), New York Giants (2014)*, Miami Dolphins (2015)*, Indianapolis Colts (2015), Montreal Alouettes (2018)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• TD–INT: 81–68, Passing yards: 13,873, Passer rating: 77.6, Rushing yards: 946, Rushing touchdowns: 4
• TD–INT: 81–68
• Passing yards: 13,873
• Passer rating: 77.6
• Rushing yards: 946
• Rushing touchdowns: 4

Josh Freeman was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2009. He started 12 games for the Bucs that season, completing 305 of 522 passes for 3,097 yards and 15 touchdowns with 10 interceptions.

In his second season with the team, he led them to a 9-7 record and helped lead them to the playoffs where they lost to New Orleans in overtime. 

The next year saw him make 13 starts and finish with 2,937 yards on 359 completions (67% completion rate) along with 21 touchdowns and 11 interceptions while leading Tampa Bay to an 8-8 finish – their first winning season since 2003.

After two more productive seasons as starter for Tampa Bay (2011–2012), Freeman was traded to Minnesota in 2013 where he went 1-6 before being released midway through the 2014 season.

 after posting a passer rating of 68%. Since then Josh has been out of football entirely having last played for the Canadian Football League's Montreal Alouettes during 2018.

Also Played For: 2010 nfl

8. Cartier Martin

Iowa Wolves

Career

• High school: Nimitz (Houston, Texas)
• College: Kansas State (2003–2007)
• NBA draft: 2007 / Undrafted
• Playing career: 2007–2017
• Position: Small forward / Shooting guard
• Number: 1, 20, 15, 35
• 2007–2008: Antalya BB
• 2008–2009: Iowa Energy
• 2009: Charlotte Bobcats
• 2009: Benetton Treviso
• 2009–2010: Iowa Energy
• 2010: Golden State Warriors
• 2010: Iowa Energy
• 2010–2011: Washington Wizards
• 2011–2012: Jilin Northeast Tigers
• 2012: Iowa Energy
• 2012–2013: Washington Wizards
• 2013–2014: Atlanta Hawks
• 2014: Chicago Bulls
• 2014: Atlanta Hawks
• 2014–2015: Detroit Pistons
• 2015–2017: Iowa Energy
• 2017: Windy City Bulls
• 2017: SAN-EN NeoPhoenix
• NBA D-League All-Star (2010), All-NBA D-League Third Team (2009), Big 12 Sixth Man of the Year (2007), 2× Second-team All-Big 12 (2006, 2007), Fourth-team Parade All-American (2003)

Cartier Martin is an American small forward who has played in the NBA since 2007. He was a two-time All-Star and won league MVP honors in 2013. Martin joined Wizards teammate John Wall as one of only two players to lead their team to the playoffs in each of their rookie seasons, doing so in 2009–10 and 2010–11.

In 2017 he signed with the Dallas Mavericks, but was traded back to Washington midway through the season after struggling with injuries. 

After averaging 18 points per game for Dallas this season, Martin will compete for a spot on Team USA at this year's Olympic Games Qualifying Tournament next month.. Cartier Martin is a two-time NBA D-League All-Star and was the league's Sixth Man of the Year in 2007.

Cartier began his professional career with the Iowa Energy of the Development League, playing there for three seasons before being called up to play in the NBA. After spending one season with Washington Wizards.

He joined Jilin Northeast Tigers of China for two more years before returning to America and signing with the Atlanta Hawks. He then spent time on loan at several other teams before landing back in Detroit Pistons where he played until 2017 when he retired from basketball after an injury ended his season prematurely.

Also Played For: kansas state wildcats basketball

9. Bob Boozer

Career

• High school: Omaha Technical (Omaha, Nebraska)
• College: Kansas State (1956–1959)
• NBA draft 1959 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Cincinnati Royals
• Playing career: 1959–1971
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 13, 14, 15, 19, 20
• 1959–1960: Peoria Caterpillars
• 1960–1963: Cincinnati Royals
• 1963–1965: New York Knicks
• 1965–1966: Los Angeles Lakers
• 1966–1969: Chicago Bulls
• 1969–1970: Seattle SuperSonics
• 1970–1971: Milwaukee Bucks
• NBA champion (1971), NBA All-Star (1968), AAU champion (1960), AAU MVP (1960), AAU All-American (1960), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1958, 1959), 2× Big Eight Player of the Year (1958, 1959), No. 30 retired by Kansas State Wildcats
• Points: 12,964 (14.8 ppg)
• Rebounds: 7,119 (8.1 rpg)
• Assists: 1,237 (1.4 apg)
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2016
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, Olympic Games, : 1960 Rome: Team competition, Pan American Games, : 1959 Chicago: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1960 Rome: Team competition
• Pan American Games
• : 1959 Chicago: Team competition

Bob Boozer was a 13th, 14th and 15th overall pick in the 1959 NBA draft. He played for the Cincinnati Royals from 1959 to 1971. Bob Boozer was one of the most dominant power forwards of his era, winning multiple championships with the Royals.

After retiring from playing basketball, Bob Boozer spent time as a broadcaster for NBC Sports and ESPN before passing away in 2012 at the age of 75. Bob Boozer was a two-time consensus first team All American in college and went on to have an amazing NBA career.

He led the league in rebounds twice and scored 12,964 points during his time in the league. Boozer is also notable for being one of only four players to score 20,000 points and grab 10,000 rebounds in their careers. 

After retiring from the NBA he became head coach of his alma mater Kansas State Wildcats where he guided them to NCAA tournament appearances each year from 2003-2008.

Also Played For: chicago bulls

10. Jacob Pullen

Mahram Tehran BC

Career

• High school: Proviso East (Maywood, Illinois)
• College: Kansas State (2007–2011)
• NBA draft: 2011 / Undrafted
• Playing career: 2011–present
• 2011–2012: Biella
• 2012–2013: Hapoel Jerusalem
• 2013: Virtus Bologna
• 2013–2014: Barcelona
• 2014: Sevilla
• 2014–2015: Brindisi
• 2015–2016: Cedevita
• 2016–2017: Khimki
• 2017–2018: Philadelphia 76ers
• 2017–2018: →Delaware 87ers
• 2018: HKK Siroki Brijeg
• 2018: Afyon
• 2018–2019: Cedevita
• 2019–2021: Mornar
• 2021–2022: KK Mornar Bar
• 2022: Kuwait SC
• 2022–present: KK Buducnost Voli
• 2023–present: Kuwait SC
• Spanish League champion (2014), Croatian League champion (2016), 2× Croatian Cup winner (2016, 2019), Slovenian League winner (2022), Slovenian Cup winner (2022), 2× All-ABA League Team (2016, 2019), 2× Third-team All-American – SN (2010, 2011), Third-team All-American – AP, NABC (2011), 2× First-team All-Big 12 (2010, 2011), Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award (2011)

Jacob Pullen played college basketball at Kansas State and was undrafted in the 2011 NBA draft. He has since played in Israel, Italy, Germany, Bahrain and Kuwait before signing with the Delaware 87ers of the NBA G-League this season.

Jacob is a point guard who averages 5 assists per game in the G-League. Born on November 10th 1989, Jacob stands 6'0" tall and weighs 200 pounds - perfect for an up-and-coming player looking to make it to America's top professional league.

Jacob Pullen is a professional basketball player who has played for several clubs in Europe. He began his career with Virtus Bologna before moving to Barcelona and then Sevilla. In 2017, he signed with the Philadelphia 76ers on a one-year deal but was waived just two months later.

He subsequently joined the Delaware 87ers of the NBA G League where he helped them win their first championship in franchise history. Pullen will return to Europe this season when he joins KK Buducnost Voli of Serbia in order to play under head coach Dušan Ivković who coached him at Khimki previously.

11. Wes Iwundu

Orlando Magic

Career

• High school: Westfield (Houston, Texas)
• College: Kansas State (2013–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 2 / Pick: 33rd overall
• Selected by the Orlando Magic
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–2020: Orlando Magic
• 2017–2018: →Lakeland Magic
• 2020–2021: Dallas Mavericks
• 2021: New Orleans Pelicans
• 2021–2022: Atlanta Hawks
• 2022: Cleveland Charge
• 2022–present: Stockton Kings
• 2× Third-team All-Big 12 (2016, 2017)

Wes Iwundu was born in Houston, Texas on December 20th, 1994. He attended Westfield High School and played for the basketball team there before going to Kansas State University.

Iwundu had a standout career at K-State and was drafted by the Orlando Magic in 2017 after playing two years of college basketball. Wes Iwundu is a small forward who can also play shooting guard which makes him an versatile player for any team he joins next season or later on in his career.

His skills as both a scorer and defender make Wes Iwundu an invaluable asset to any squad he joins and will be looking to build on the success he has had so far in his NBA G League career with the Stockton Kings Wes Iwundu is a shooting guard who has played for the Orlando Magic and Lakeland Magic in the NBA.

Wes Iwundu was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the second round of the 2020 draft. Wes Iwundu averaged 14 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal per game during his rookie season with Dallas. 

Wes Iwundu joined the New Orleans Pelicans for the 2021-2022 season and averaged 13 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 block per game while playing under head coach Alvin Gentry.

Wes Iwundu signed with Stockton Kings for the 2022-2023 season and averaged 15 points per game on 49% shooting from three point range en route to being named to an All-NBA Third Team nod alongside Kyrie Irving and Nikola Jokic .

12. Dean Wade

Cleveland Cavaliers

Career

• High school: St. John (St. John, Kansas)
• College: Kansas State (2015–2019)
• NBA draft: 2019 / Undrafted
• Playing career: 2019–present
• 2019–present: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2019–2020: →Canton Charge
• 2× First-team All-Big 12 (2018, 2019), First-team Parade All-American (2015), Mr. Kansas Basketball (2015)

Dean Wade played college basketball at Kansas State, where he was a two-time All-American and led the Wildcats to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in over 30 years.

After graduating from K-State, Wade signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers as a small forward and power forward. In his rookie season with the Cavs, Dean Wade averaged 10 points per game while also averaging 4 rebounds and 2 assists per contest.

In 2018–19, Dean Wade increased his scoring average by 3 points (from 11 to 14) while also increasing his rebounding average by 1 point (from 5 to 6). 

The 2019–20 campaign saw Dean Wade continue his strong play for the Cavaliers, averaging 17 points per game on 53% shooting from the field along with 7 rebounds and 2 assists per contest; he was named co-Player of the Month for October alongside LeBron James Jr.

At 26 years of age, Dean is still young enough that there's potential for him to improve even further in terms of both scoring and rebounding; if he does so then it would be difficult to see anyone other than Lebron James or Steph Curry lifting an NBA Championship trophy next year.

Also Played For: cleveland cavaliers

13. Dick Knostman

Career

• High school: Wamego (Wamego, Kansas)
• College: Kansas State (1950–1953)
• NBA draft 1953 / Round: -- / Pick: --
• Selected by the Syracuse Nationals
• Playing career: 1953–1954
• Position: Center
• Number: 10
• 1953–1954: Syracuse Nationals
• Consensus second-team All-American (1953), No. 33 Jersey retired by Kansas State Wildcats

Dick Knostman was born in Wamego, Kansas on August 9, 1931. He attended high school at Wamego and played basketball for the schools team before going on to play college ball at Kansas State.

After graduating from K-State with a degree in education, Dick embarked upon a lengthy professional career in the NBA that spanned over 20 years. 

His most successful seasons came as a member of the Syracuse Nationals (where he won an ABA championship) and the Milwaukee Bucks (who he led to their first ever playoff appearance).

Dick retired from playing in 1977 after a stint with the Seattle SuperSonics but continues to work as an educator today. Dick Knostman was a center for the Syracuse Nationals in the early 1950s.

 He was consensus second-team All-American and played 33 games for Kansas State Wildcats during his career. Dick Knostman is most famous for being one of only two players to have their number retired by both the Syracuse Nationals and Kansas State Wildcats, along with Roy Tarpley.

14. Chuckie Williams

Career

• High school: East (Columbus, Ohio)
• College: Kansas State (1972–1976)
• NBA draft 1976 / Round: 1 / Pick: 15th overall
• Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers
• Playing career: 1976–1978
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 15
• 1976–1977: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 1978: Richmond Virginians
• 2× First-team All-Big Eight (1975, 1976), No. 10 Jersey retired by Kansas State Wildcats, First-team Parade All-American (1972)

Chuckie Williams played professional basketball for the Cleveland Cavaliers from 1976 to 1978. He averaged 5.1 points and 2.9 rebounds in his career. Williams was born in 1953 in Columbus, Ohio and went to high school at East (Columbus, Ohio).

After playing college ball at Kansas State, he was selected by the Cavs with the 15th overall pick in the 1976 NBA Draft. 

In his three seasons with Cleveland, Williams averaged 8 minutes per game before being traded to Golden State midway through the 1978-79 season where he would play out his last two years of professional basketball before retiring due to knee injuries aged just 27 years old..

Chuckie Williams was a shooting guard who played in the NBA from 1976-1978. Chuckie Williams enjoyed a successful playing career, being named to both First Team All-Big Eight and Parade All-American teams in his two seasons at Kansas State. 

After leaving the NBA, Williams went on to have an illustrious coaching career with stops at Oklahoma City Thunder (1989–1992), Philadelphia 76ers (1994), and Chicago Bulls (1998).

In 2002, he became head coach of the Detroit Pistons where he led them to their first playoff appearance since 1989 before resigning following the 2003 season due to health concerns. Williams passed away from cancer aged 57 on July 13th 2017 after a long battle with illness.

15. Askia Jones

Career

• High school: Marshall (San Antonio, Texas)
• College: Kansas State (1990–1994)
• NBA draft: 1994 / Undrafted
• Playing career: 1994–2010
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 2
• 1994: Minnesota Timberwolves
• 1994–1995: Rockford Lightning
• 1995: Illiabum Clube
• 1995: Aspac Jakarta
• 1995–1997: Rio Claro Basquete
• 1996–2001: Guaiqueríes de Margarita
• 1997: Polluelos de Aibonito
• 1997–1998: Apollon Limassol
• 1998–1999: Flamengo
• 1999–2000: Joventut Badalona
• 2001: Los Barrios
• 2001–2002: Shell Turbo Chargers
• 2002–2004: Trotamundos de Carabobo
• 2005–2009: Gaiteros del Zulia
• 2010: Guaros de Lara

Askia Jones was born on December 3, 1971 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After high school, he played college basketball for Kansas State before being undrafted in the 1994 NBA Draft.

He then spent four seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves and two more with the Phoenix Suns before retiring from playing in 2010. Since retirement, Askia has worked as a commentator for various TV networks and is currently an assistant coach for Villanova University's men's basketball team under Jay Wright.

In his spare time he enjoys spending time with his wife and three children . Askia Jones played collegiately at the University of California, Berkeley. He was drafted by the Rockford Lightning in 1994 and played for them until 1995. 

Askia then signed with Illibum Clube in Indonesia and stayed there for two seasons before joining Rio Claro Basquete in Brazil for one season.

In 1997 he came to North America to play with Guaiqueríes de Margarita where he spent two years before playing a single game with Polluelos de Aibonito (in Puerto Rico) before returning to Europe once again, this time signing with Flamengo in 1998. 

After spending one year back home on loan from Flamengo, Askia joined Joventut Badalona (Spain) for two more years before coming over to play briefly in the United States with the Shell Turbo Chargers during 2001-2002 season while also splitting time between Venezuela and Mexico during that same timeframe as well.

16. Ed Nealy

Career

• High school: Bonner Springs, (Bonner Springs, Kansas)
• College: Kansas State (1978–1982)
• NBA draft 1982 / Round: 8 / Pick: 166th overall
• Selected by the Kansas City Kings
• Playing career: 1982–1993
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 20, 32, 45, 55
• 1982–1984: Kansas City Kings
• 1984–1985: Sarasota Stingers
• 1985: Kansas City Kings
• 1985–1986: Tampa Bay Thrillers
• 1986–1988: San Antonio Spurs
• 1988: Chicago Bulls
• 1988–1989: Phoenix Suns
• 1989–1990: Chicago Bulls
• 1990–1992: Phoenix Suns
• 1992–1993: Golden State Warriors
• 1993: Chicago Bulls
• NBA champion (1993), CBA champion (1986), First-team All-Big Eight (1982), Big Eight Newcomer of the Year (1979)

Ed Nealy was born on February 19, 1960 in Pittsburg, Kansas. He attended high school at Bonner Springs and played college basketball for the Kansas State Wildcats from 1978 to 1982.

In 1982, he was drafted by the then-Kansas City Kings and played with them until 1993. He is most famous for his time spent with the Kings where he averaged 10 points and 5 rebounds per game over his career.

Ed has since retired from playing professional basketball but continues to work as a physical education teacher in Pittsburg, KS Nealy was a three-time All-American and two-time NCAA champion at the University of Kansas.

Nealy played 12 seasons in the NBA, all with the Chicago Bulls, where he won an NBA championship in 1993. After retiring from playing professionally, Nealy served as assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors before joining Rick Majerus' staff at Saint Louis University in 2009.

17. Ernie Barrett

Career

• High school: Wellington (Wellington, Kansas)
• College: Kansas State (1948–1951)
• NBA draft 1951 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1951–1956
• Position: Forward / Guard
• Number: 23
• 1953–1954,, 1955–1956: Boston Celtics
• Consensus second-team All-American (1951), No. 22 Jersey retired by Kansas State Wildcats
• Points: 641 (4.9 ppg)
• Rebounds: 343 (2.6 rpg)
• Assists: 229 (1.7 apg)

Ernie Barrett was a forward and guard who played for the Boston Celtics from 1951 to 1956. He averaged 16.1 points per game during his career, ranking him tenth in total scoring among all players in the NBA during that time period.

Barrett also ranked fourth on the Celtics' all-time list with 2,866 assists and eighth with 1,579 rebounds during his playing days. 

Ernie Barrett was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1985 and has been named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA history by both ESPN and TNT.

Barrett was a consensus second-team All-American in 1951 and is Kansas State's all-time leading scorer. Barrett played nine seasons in the NBA, averaging 4.9 points, 343 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game. 

He was inducted into the Kansas State Athletic Hall of Fame in 1978 and has his jersey number 22 retired by the Wildcats.

18. Deuce Vaughn

Kansas State Wildcats football

Career

• College: , Kansas State (2020–present)
• Bowl games: , 2022 Sugar Bowl
• High school: Cedar Ridge, (Round Rock, Texas)
• 2× Consensus All-American (2021, 2022), Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year (2020), 3× Second-team All-Big 12 (2020–2022)

Deuce Vaughn is a junior running back for the Kansas State Wildcats. He has played in all 38 games during his two seasons with the team. Deuce was born on November 2, 2001 in Fayetteville, Arkansas and attended high school at North Little Rock High School before signing with Kansas State in 2020.

In his freshman season (2020), Deuce had 1,050 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on 267 carries while adding 36 receptions for 313 yards and one touchdown through the air. 

As a sophomore in 2021, Deuce led K-State with 1,416 rushing yards on 281 carries along with 16 receptions for 205 yards and five touchdowns through the air en route to being named First Team All-Big 12 Conference performer.

Vaughn signed an entry level contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars following his collegiate career but was waived prior to their rookie mini camp earlier this year.

Also Played For: college football, ncaa division football

19. Brandon Banks

Wide receiver

Career

• High school: Garner, (Garner, North Carolina)
• College: Kansas State
• Position: Wide receiver / Return specialist
• Undrafted: 2010
• Washington Redskins (2010–2012), Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2013–2021), Toronto Argonauts (2022)
• Grey Cup champion (2022), CFL's Most Outstanding Player Award (2019), CFL All-Star (2014, 2015, 2018, 2019), CFL East All-Star (2014–2019), NFL Kickoff return yards leader (2011), Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Year (2009), Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year (2008)
• Receptions: 11, Receiving yards: 35, Receiving touchdowns: 0, Return yards: 3,793, Return touchdowns: 1
• Receptions: 11
• Receiving yards: 35
• Receiving touchdowns: 0
• Return yards: 3,793
• Return touchdowns: 1
• Receptions: 422, Receiving yards: 5,678, Receiving touchdowns: 44, Rushing touchdowns: 5, Return touchdowns: 13
• Receptions: 422
• Receiving yards: 5,678
• Receiving touchdowns: 44
• Rushing touchdowns: 5
• Return touchdowns: 13

Banks was undrafted in 2010 but signed with the Washington Redskins. In 2013, Banks signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and helped them win Grey Cup that year.

He was traded to the Toronto Argonauts in 2021 and has continued to be a major part of their offence during his time there. In 2022, he will join the Argonauts as a member of their new roster for the upcoming season.

Brandon Banks is a former NFL and CFL player who is considered one of the best returners in league history. Banks was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 2009, but did not make an impact until he signed with the Chicago Bears in 2012.

In his first season with Chicago, Banks led all returners with 1,204 yards on kickoff returns and two touchdowns. He played for the Atlanta Falcons from 2014 to 2019 before joining the Ottawa Redblacks this year as their primary kickreturner and punt Returner.

In 2020, he will join his third team when he signs with the Calgary Stampeders after spending last season with Saskatchewan Roughriders.

Also Played For: hamilton tiger cats

20. Terence Newman

Dallas Cowboys

Career

• High school: Salina (KS) Central
• College: Kansas State
• NFL Draft: 2003 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5
• 2× Pro Bowl (2007, 2009), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2003), Jim Thorpe Award (2002), Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year (2002), Unanimous All-American (2002), First-team All-Big 12 (2002), Second-team All-Big 12 (2001), Kansas State Hall of Fame (2018)
• Total tackles: 876, Pass deflections: 184, Interceptions: 42, Forced fumbles: 8, Fumble recoveries: 7, Defensive touchdowns: 4
• Total tackles: 876
• Pass deflections: 184
• Interceptions: 42
• Forced fumbles: 8
• Fumble recoveries: 7
• Defensive touchdowns: 4

Terence Newman started his NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys and played there for 8 seasons. In 2012, he signed with the Cincinnati Bengals and played there for 2 seasons.

In 2014, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings and played there for 3 seasons. In 2017, he retired from the NFL. Terence Newman is a two-time Pro Bowler and was voted to the All-Pro team twice.

He is also a two-time Super Bowl Champion, with the Dallas Cowboys in 2003 and with the Minnesota Vikings in 2017. Terence Newman was born on September 4, 1978 in Salina, Kansas. He is married and has two children.

Terence Newman currently works as a television analyst for the NFL on Fox. Terence Newman was an All-American at Kansas State, and was drafted by the Vikings in the first round of the 2002 NFL Draft. He has been a Pro Bowler twice, and has accumulated over 800 tackles in the NFL.

Newman is a four-time First-team All-Big 12 player, and was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2002. He is a member of the Kansas State Hall of Fame, and is currently the defensive backs coach for the Minnesota Vikings.

21. Michael Bishop

Grand Rapids Rampage

Career

• High school: Willis (TX)
• College: Kansas State
• NFL Draft: 1999 / Round: 7 / Pick: 227
• New England Patriots (1999–2000), Green Bay Packers (2001)*, Frankfurt Galaxy (2001), Toronto Argonauts (2002–2008), Grand Rapids Rampage (2004–2005), Chicago Rush (2006), Kansas City Brigade (2007), Grand Rapids Rampage (2007), Saskatchewan Roughriders (2008), Corpus Christi Hammerheads (2009), Texas Hurricanes (2009), Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2009–2010), Calgary Stampeders (2011), Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2011)
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Grey Cup champion (2004), 2× NJCAA national champion (1995, 1996), Fiesta Bowl champion (1997), Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year (1997), Consensus All-American (1998), First-team All-Big 12 (1998), Second-team All-Big 12 (1997), Davey O'Brien Award (1998), Kansas State Hall of Fame (2016)
• TD–INT: 1–1, Passing yards: 80, Passer rating: 64.4
• TD–INT: 1–1
• Passing yards: 80
• Passer rating: 64.4
• TD–INT: 66–77, Passing yards: 11,772, Passer rating: 70.7
• TD–INT: 66–77
• Passing yards: 11,772
• Passer rating: 70.7

Bishop was drafted by the New England Patriots in 1999 but did not play for them until 2000. He then played for the Green Bay Packers for one season before joining the Frankfurt Galaxy.

Bishop was traded to the Toronto Argonauts in 2008 and played for them until his retirement in 2013. He holds the record for the most passing yards in a career (45,476) and is second in passing touchdowns (249).

Bishop has been a three-time CFL All-Star and was named the league's Most Outstanding Player in 2006. Bishop was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2014. He was a two-time NJCAA national champion and Fiesta Bowl champion.

He was consensus All-American and first-team All-Big 12. He was drafted by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the first round of the 1998 CFL Draft. Bishop played for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers from 1998 to 2010. He was a two-time Grey Cup champion with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

He played for the Calgary Stampeders from 2011 to 2012. He was signed by the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the 2013 CFL Season. He retired after the Saskatchewan Roughriders' 2014 CFL Season. He was inducted into the Manitoba Football Hall of Fame in 2016.

22. Felix Anudike

Kansas State Wildcats football

Career

• College: , Kansas State (2020–2022)
• Bowl games: , 2022 Texas Bowl (January)
• High school: Lee's Summit (Lee's Summit, Missouri)
• First-team All-American (2022), Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year (2022), 2× Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year (2021, 2022), 2× first-team All-Big 12 (2021, 2022)

Felix Anudike is a Junior defensive end for the Kansas State Wildcats. Felix Anudike was born in 2002 in Kansas City, Missouri. Felix Anudike is 1.93 meters tall and weighs 255 pounds.

Felix Anudike played college football at Kansas State. Felix Anudike has not yet played in a professional football game. Felix Anudike is a highly-rated defensive end prospect. Felix Anudike is expected to be a first-round draft pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Felix Anudike is a highly-talented, young defensive end prospect. Felix Anudike is a standout defensive lineman for Lee's Summit High School in Lee's Summit, Missouri. He was a first-team All-American in 2022 and won two Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year awards in 2021 and 2022.

Anudike is a dominant force on the defensive line, and his ability to generate pressure on the quarterback has helped Lee's Summit to a record of 42-4 over the past three years. Anudike is a likely candidate for the NFL draft in early May, and he is sure to be a top pick if he decides to turn professional.

He is a force to be reckoned with on the gridiron and is sure to continue to produce impressive numbers for Lee's Summit in the years to come.

Also Played For: mock draft

23. Adrian Martinez

Kansas State Wildcats football

Career

• College: , Nebraska (2018–2021), Kansas State (2022–present)
• Bowl games: , 2022 Sugar Bowl, 2023 Hula Bowl
• High school: Clovis West (Clovis, California)

Adrian Martinez was a four-year starter at quarterback for the Kansas State Wildcats, leading the team to a combined record of 47-27 (.671) in his time.

Martinez is a senior in business administration and is expected to be a high draft pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Martinez was a two-time Big 12 Player of the Year and was recognized as a first-team All-American in both 2018 and 2019.

Martinez set several school records, including single-season touchdown passes (38), single-season passing yards (5,593), and career touchdown passes (63). 

Martinez is the first player in Kansas State football history to be named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year.

Martinez was born in Fresno, California, and played high school football at Edison High School in Fresno. Adrian Martinez is the son of former NFL quarterback Craig Martinez.

24. Martín Gramática

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Career

• High school: LaBelle (LaBelle, Florida)
• College: Kansas State (1994–1998)
• NFL Draft: 1999 / Round
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1999–2003), Indianapolis Colts (2004), New England Patriots (2006)*, Indianapolis Colts (2006), Dallas Cowboys (2006–2007), New Orleans Saints (2007–2008)
• Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Super Bowl champion (XXXVII), Second-team All-Pro (2000), Pro Bowl (2000), PFWA All-Rookie Team (1999), First-team All-American (1997), Second-team All-American (1998), 2× First-team All-Big 12 (1997, 1998), Lou Groza Award (1997), FBS record, Longest field goal made: 65 yards
• Field goals attempted: 203, Field goals made
• Field goals attempted: 203
• Field goals made: 155
• Field goals percentage: 76.4%
• Longest field goal: 55 yards
• Extra points attempted: 230
• Extra points made: 228
• Extra points percentage: 99.1%

Martín Gramática kicked for the Buccaneers and Colts in the NFL. He was selected in the third round of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Buccaneers. He played for the Buccaneers and Colts from 1999 to 2003.

He signed with the Indianapolis Colts in 2004 and played for them until 2006. He then signed with the New England Patriots in 2006 and played for them until 2006. He was then signed by the Indianapolis Colts in 2006 and played for them until 2008.

He then retired from the NFL in 2008. Martín Gramática is a 47-year-old Argentine placekicker. He is currently a kicker coach for the Argentinian national team. 

Gramática was a standout kicker for the Cowboys from 2006-2007. He was a two-time first-team All-Big 12 player and Lou Groza Award winner at Texas Tech.

Gramática was signed by the Saints in 2007, but was released before the season began. He was signed by the Cowboys again in 2008 and finished the season as the team's leading kicker. 

Gramática was signed by the Raiders as a free agent in 2009, but was released before the season began. He has since retired from the NFL.

Also Played For: 2000 nfl season

25. David Allen

Career

• High school: Liberty High School, Liberty, Missouri
• College: Kansas State
• Undrafted: 2000
• Jacksonville Jaguars (2002–2004), St. Louis Rams (2005), Calgary Stampeders (2005–2006)
• Consensus All-American (1998), 2× First-team All-Big 12 (1998, 1999), Second-team All-Big 12 (1997)
• Player stats at PFR

David Allen was a running back at Liberty High School before playing at Kansas State. Allen was undrafted in 2000, but he was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles as a free agent.

Allen played for the Eagles, the Minnesota Vikings, and the Tennessee Titans before retiring in 2013. Allen has written a number of books, including "The Power of Intention" and "The Productivity Project." 

Allen is currently the co-founder and CEO of David Allen Company, a productivity software company.

Allen was named one of the "100 Most Influential People in Sports" by Sports Illustrated in 2013. Allen was inducted into the Liberty High School Hall of Fame in 2014. 

Allen is a two-time winner of the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award. Allen is married and has two children. Allen was a consensus All-American in 1998, when he led the nation in sacks with 15.

He also earned First-team All-Big 12 honors in 1998 and 1999. Allen spent his first five seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, recording 111 tackles and 28 sacks. In 2005, Allen was traded to the St. Louis Rams, where he spent two seasons. Allen then spent the 2007 season with the Calgary Stampeders.

26. Darren Howard

Philadelphia Eagles

Career

• High school: Boca Ciega (Gulfport, Florida)
• College: Kansas State
• NFL Draft: 2000 / Round: 2 / Pick: 33
• New Orleans Saints (2000–2005), Philadelphia Eagles (2006–2009)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2000), 2× First-team All-Big 12 (1998, 1999), Second-team All-Big 12 (1997)
• Total tackles: 352, Sacks: 67.0, Forced fumbles: 18, Fumble recoveries: 10, Interceptions: 3
• Total tackles: 352
• Sacks: 67.0
• Forced fumbles: 18
• Fumble recoveries: 10
• Interceptions: 3

Darren Howard was a standout defensive end at Kansas State, and was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the 2000 NFL Draft. He would play for the Saints for four seasons before being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2007.

Howard is best known for his time with the Eagles, where he recorded 66 tackles, two sacks, and two interceptions. He retired from the NFL in 2013. Howard is currently a radio analyst for the Saints on the team's radio network.

Howard was born in St. Petersburg, Florida, and raised in Gulfport, where he played high school football for Boca Ciega. He attended Kansas State, where he was a two-time All-American and was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year in 1998.

Howard is married and has two children. Howard was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth round of the 2006 NFL Draft. 

Howard started his NFL career with the Eagles and played in six seasons with the team. Howard was a three-time First-team All-Big 12 player and was also a Second-team All-Big 12 player.

Howard was a two-time NFL All-Rookie Team selection and was also a two-time Pro Bowler. Howard was released by the Eagles in 2009 and later retired from the NFL. 

Howard is currently a sports agent. Howard is married and has two children. Howard is a sports analyst for Fox Sports. Howard is currently a color commentator for the Philadelphia 76ers.

27. Rock Cartwright

Washington Commanders

Career

• High school: Conroe (TX)
• College: Kansas State
• NFL Draft: 2002 / Round: 7 / Pick: 257
• Rushing attempts: 228, Rushing yards: 956, Receptions: 64, Receiving yards: 589, Return yards: 5,450, Total touchdowns: 9
• Rushing attempts: 228
• Rushing yards: 956
• Receptions: 64
• Receiving yards: 589
• Return yards: 5,450
• Total touchdowns: 9

Cartwright was drafted by the Redskins in 2002 and spent six seasons with the team before being traded to the Raiders in 2010. Cartwright was a powerful runner with good speed and elusiveness.

He was a mainstay on the Redskins' rushing attack during his time in Washington and Oakland. Cartwright finished his career with over 2,000 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. Cartwright is currently an assistant coach with the Raiders.

Cartwright is a versatile running back who can be used in a variety of ways on offense. He is a hard runner who can take on defenders and break through the line. Cartwright is a good pass catcher and can make big plays down the field.

He is a valuable member of the 49ers offense and will play a major role in the coming season. Cartwright is a versatile player who can play any running back position. Cartwright is a good leader on and off the field and will be a valuable asset to the 49ers in the coming season.

Cartwright will be a major contributor on the 49ers offense this season. Cartwright is a valuable member of the 49ers team and will be a big part of their success this season. Cartwright is a versatile player who will be a major contributor on the 49ers offense this season.

28. Will Howard

Kansas State Wildcats football

Career

• College: , Kansas State (2020–present)
• Bowl games: , 2022 Sugar Bowl
• High school: Downingtown West, (Downingtown, Pennsylvania)

Will Howard is a junior quarterback for the Kansas State Wildcats. He was a two-time All-Big 12 selection and was a finalist for the Johnny Unitas Award in 2018.

He set school records for touchdown passes in a season (37) and for touchdown passes in a career (96). He was also a two-time Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week.

Howard was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He made his professional debut in the Colts' season-opener against the Houston Texans.

Howard was waived by the Colts on September 1, 2018. He was signed to the Washington Redskins' practice squad the same day. He was released by the Redskins on September 12, 2018.

Howard is an electric quarterback who has shown flashes of being a top-end NFL player. He is a two-time All-Big 12 selection and was a finalist for the Johnny Unitas Award in 2018.

His 37 touchdown passes in 2018 were a school record, and he also set school records for touchdown passes in a season and for touchdown passes in a career. 

Howard was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, but was waived by the Colts on September 1, 2018.

He was signed to the Washington Redskins' practice squad the same day, but was released by the Redskins on September 12, 2018.

29. Gary Spani

Career

• High school: Manhattan, (Manhattan, Kansas)
• College: Kansas State
• NFL Draft: 1978 / Round: 3 / Pick: 58
• Kansas City Chiefs (1978–1986)
• Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame (2003), Kansas State Hall of Fame (2000)
• College Football Hall of Fame

Gary Spani is a linebacker for the Rosecrans Air National Guard Base. Spani played college football at Kansas State. He has played in the NFL for the Los Angeles Rams and the Philadelphia Eagles.

Spani has also played for the Kansas City Chiefs and the New Orleans Saints. Spani is a two-time Pro Bowler. Spani was inducted into the Kansas State Football Hall of Fame in 2003. Gary Spani was born on January 9, 1956 in Satanta, Kansas.

He attended Manhattan High School and played linebacker for the Bobcats. Spani then went on to play for the Kansas State Wildcats. Gary Spani was a three-time all-conference selection at Kansas State. Gary Spani was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the third round of the 1978 NFL Draft.

Gary Spani played for the Chiefs from 1978 to 1986. Gary Spani was a two-time Pro Bowler and was named to the All-Pro team in 1982. 

Gary Spani was inducted into the Kansas State Hall of Fame in 2000. Gary Spani is a member of the Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame. Gary Spani was voted to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003.

Gary Spani currently works as a color analyst for the Chiefs Radio Network. Gary Spani is the father of NFL player DeMarcus Spani.

30. Rolando Blackman

Career

• High school: William E. Grady (Brooklyn, New York)
• College: Kansas State (1977–1981)
• NBA draft 1981 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
• Selected by the Dallas Mavericks
• Playing career: 1981–1997
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 22, 20
• 1981–1992: Dallas Mavericks
• 1992–1994: New York Knicks
• 1994–1995: AEK Athens
• 1995–1996: Olimpia Milano
• 1996–1997: CSP Limoges
• 4× NBA All-Star (1985–1987, 1990), No. 22 retired by Dallas Mavericks, Italian League champion (1996), Italian Cup champion (1996), Third-team All-American – NABC (1981), Third-team All-American – AP (1980), Big Eight Player of the Year (1980), 3× First-team All-Big Eight (1979–1981), No. 25 Jersey retired by Kansas State Wildcats
• Points: 17,623 (18.0 ppg)
• Rebounds: 3,278 (3.3 rpg)
• Assists: 2,981 (3.0 apg)
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2015

Rolando Blackman was born on February 26, 1959, in Panama City, Panama. He played college basketball at Kansas State, and was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the 1981 NBA draft.

Blackman spent his entire professional career with the Mavericks, retiring in 1997. He is best known for his time with the Mavericks, where he won two championships (1989 and 1991).

Blackman is also a three-time All-Star, and was named the NBA Finals MVP in 1991. Blackman currently works as a color commentator for NBA games. He was married to his wife, Leslie, from 1984 until her death in 2006.

Blackman has three children, and resides in Dallas, Texas. Blackman is a member of the National Basketball Hall of Fame and the Panama Hall of Fame. Rolando Blackman was a standout player in college and in the NBA. He was a three-time All-American and a three-time First-team All-Big Eight player.

He was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the second round of the 1985 NBA draft and went on to play for the team for six seasons. 

He was a key player on the Mavericks' championship teams in 1988 and 1989. He was also a part of the team that won the championship in 1996. Blackman retired from the NBA in 1998.

Also Played For: dallas mavericks

31. Skylar Thompson

Miami Dolphins

Career

• High school: Fort Osage, (Independence, Missouri)
• College: Kansas State (2016–2021)
• NFL Draft: 2022 / Round: 7 / Pick: 247
• Miami Dolphins (2022–present)
• Roster status: Active
• TD–INT: 1–3, Passing yards: 534, Completion percentage: 57.1%, Passer rating: 62.2, Rushing yards: 21
• TD–INT: 1–3
• Passing yards: 534
• Completion percentage: 57.1%
• Passer rating: 62.2
• Rushing yards: 21

Skylar Thompson was born on June 4, 1997, in Palmyra, Missouri. Thompson attended Fort Osage High School in Independence, Missouri, where he played quarterback for the Wildcats.

Thompson played college football at Kansas State, where he started all 23 games of his career. In 2021, Thompson was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the seventh round of the NFL Draft.

Thompson is currently a backup quarterback for the Dolphins. Thompson is a skilled passer, having completed 57.1% of his passes for 534 yards and three touchdowns. He also has 21 rushing yards on the year.

Thompson has been a mainstay for the Miami Dolphins over the past two seasons.

32. Dalton Risner

Denver Broncos

Career

• High school: Wiggins, (Wiggins, Colorado)
• College: Kansas State (2014–2018)
• NFL Draft: 2019 / Round: 2 / Pick: 41
• Denver Broncos (2019–present)
• Roster status: Active
• First-team All-American (2018), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2019), 3× First-team All-Big 12 (2016, 2017, 2018), Big 12 Co-Offensive Lineman of the Year (2018)
• Games played: 62, Games started: 62
• Games played: 62
• Games started: 62

Dalton Risner is a guard for the Denver Broncos. Risner attended Wiggins High School in Branson, Missouri. He played college football at Kansas State. Risner was drafted in the 2019 NFL Draft by the Broncos.

Risner has played in 54 games in his career, starting 36 of them. Risner has accumulated 1,022 yards and six touchdowns on the ground. He has also collected 251 yards and two touchdowns through the air. Risner is a hard-nosed player who can dominate at either guard position.

Risner is looking to improve on his 2018 season, in which he played well but did not win any awards. Dalton Risner is an All-American offensive lineman for the Denver Broncos. He was a three-time First-team All-Big 12 player and Big 12 Co-Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2018.

Risner is a tough and physical player who excels in the run game. He is expected to start at left tackle for the Broncos this season. Dalton Risner is a strong candidate for the 2019 NFL MVP award.

33. Mario Fatafehi

Career

• High school: Honolulu (HI) Farrington
• College: Kansas State
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 5 / Pick: 133
• Arizona Cardinals (2001–2002), Carolina Panthers (2002), Denver Broncos (2003–2004), Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2006)
• Second-team All-Big 12 (1999), Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year (1999), First-team All-Big 12 (2000), Football News First-team All-American (2000)
• Tackles: 57, Sacks: 5.0, Forced fumbles: 1
• Tackles: 57
• Sacks: 5.0
• Forced fumbles: 1

Mario Fatafehi was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1979. Fatafehi played college football at Kansas State and was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2001.

Fatafehi spent three seasons with the Cardinals before signing with the Carolina Panthers in 2002. Fatafehi played for the Panthers for two more seasons before signing with the Denver Broncos in 2004.

Fatafehi spent four seasons with the Broncos before retiring in 2008. Fatafehi has since worked as a coach at a football camp. Fatafehi was inducted into the Arizona Cardinals Hall of Fame in 2017. Fatafehi is married and has two children.

Fatafehi is currently an assistant coach with the Chicago Bears. Mario Fatafehi was a two-time First-team All-Big 12 selection and a 2000 Football News First-team All-American. 

A 2000 graduate of Kansas, Fatafehi played in 57 games with 25 starts, totaling 57 tackles, 5.0 sacks, 1 forced fumble and one fumble recovery.

He was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the sixth round of the 2001 NFL draft. Fatafehi played for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League from 2002-2005. 

He was released by the Tiger-Cats on February 12, 2006. Fatafehi is a physical defender who played in a 3-4 linebacker role in the NFL. He was re-signed by the Detroit Lions on March 2, 2006.

Fatafehi was released by the Lions on September 3, 2006. He was re-signed by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on October 12, 2006. Fatafehi was released by the Tiger-Cats on November 1, 2006.

 He was re-signed by the Tiger-Cats on November 22, 2006. Fatafehi was released by the Tiger-Cats on November 29, 2006. He was re-signed by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on December 20, 2006.

Fatafehi was released by the Tiger-Cats on January 2, 2007. He was re-signed by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on January 4, 2007. Fatafehi was released by the Tiger-Cats on January 8, 2007. Fatafehi was re-signed by the Tiger-Cats on January 11, 2007. 

He was released by the Tiger-Cats on January 15, 2007. Fatafehi signed with the Ottawa Redblacks of the Canadian Football League on January 15, 2007.

He was released by the Redblacks on September 1, 2007. Fatafehi signed with the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League on September 1, 2007. He was released by the Alouettes on October 5, 2007. Fatafehi signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on October.

34. Phillip Brooks III

Career

• 1960–1961: Corunna HS (MI) (backfield/JV team 13 - 1)
• 1962–1968: Resurrection/Gabriels HS (MI)
• 1969–1970: East Lansing HS (MI)
• 1971–1990: Alma
• 1991: Eastern Michigan (assistant)
• 1992: Lake Michigan Catholic HS (MI)

Brooks coached at Alma from 1971-1990. Brooks compiled a record of 213-151-4. Brooks was named conference coach of the year five times. Brooks was inducted into the Alma Hall of Fame in 1998.

Brooks was the head coach of the Michigan Wolverines from 1990-1991. Phillip Brooks III is a head coach and athletic director at Eastern Michigan University. Brooks was the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at the University of Michigan from 1992 to 2004.

Brooks was the head coach at Lake Michigan Catholic High School in Michigan from 1988 to 2004. Brooks was inducted into the Michigan High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2007. Brooks was the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at the University of Michigan from 1992 to 2004.

Brooks was the head coach at Eastern Michigan University from 1991 to 2004. Brooks was the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at the University of Michigan from 1992 to 2004.

 Brooks was the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at the University of Michigan from 1992 to 2004. Brooks was the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at the University of Michigan from 1992 to 2004.

35. Bill Snyder

Career

• 1958: Missouri
• 1959–1962: William Jewell
• Position(s): Quarterback, defensive back
• 1962: Gallatin HS (MO) (assistant)
• 1964–1965: Indio HS (CA) (assistant)
• 1966: USC (GA)
• 1967–1968: Indio HS (CA)
• 1969–1973: Santa Ana Foothill HS (CA)
• 1974–1975: Austin (OC)
• 1976–1978: North Texas (assistant)
• 1979–1988: Iowa (OC/QB)
• 1989–2005: Kansas State
• 2009–2018: Kansas State
• 2018–present: Kansas State (Special Ambassador)

Bill Snyder is a legendary coach in the NCAA, and has led Kansas State to two Big 12 championships. Snyder was born in Missouri in 1939, and started his coaching career at Gallatin High School in Missouri in 1962.

He spent three years at USC, before moving to GA to coach at Indio High School in 1966. Snyder then moved to Santa Ana Foothill High School in California, where he spent the next nine years. 

He led the Wildcats to back-to-back Big 12 championships in 1989 and 1990, before moving to Kansas State in 1993.

Snyder has led the team to seven bowl games, and has won over 200 games overall. He has also been a Special Ambassador for the NCAA, and has worked with a number of charities throughout his career. 

Snyder was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013. He is now retired from coaching, but remains an ambassador for the sport.

36. Ell Roberson

Career

• College: Kansas State
• Undrafted: 2005
• Montreal Alouettes (2004–2006)

Ell Roberson is a former quarterback who played in the NFL for the Dallas Cowboys from 2003-2008. Roberson played collegiately at Southern Methodist University before being drafted by the Cowboys in 2003.

He was a member of the Cowboys' Super Bowl-winning team in 2007. After leaving the Cowboys in 2008, Roberson played for the Arizona Cardinals and the Carolina Panthers, before retiring in 2013. 

Roberson has since launched a successful career in coaching, most notably as the quarterbacks coach for the Texas Longhorns.

In 2018, he was named the head coach of the Las Vegas Locomotives of the Alliance of American Football. Roberson is married and has two children. 

Roberson is a devout Christian and has spoken about his faith on numerous occasions. Ell Roberson is considered one of the Cowboys' all-time greats.

37. Daniel Thomas

Miami Dolphins

Career

• High school: Hilliard (FL)
• College: Kansas State
• NFL Draft: 2011 / Round: 2 / Pick: 62
• Miami Dolphins (2011–2014), Chicago Bears (2015)*, Miami Dolphins (2016)*, Saskatchewan Roughriders (2017)
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• CFL status: International
• Second-team All-Big 12 (2010), First-team All-Big 12 (2009), Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year (2009), JUCO All-American (2007)
• Rushing attempts: 409, Rushing yards: 1,480, Rushing touchdowns: 10, Receptions: 55, Receiving yards: 412, Receiving touchdowns: 3
• Rushing attempts: 409
• Rushing yards: 1,480
• Rushing touchdowns: 10
• Receptions: 55
• Receiving yards: 412
• Receiving touchdowns: 3

Daniel Thomas is a running back who played for the Miami Dolphins from 2011-2014, then played for the Chicago Bears in 2015 before joining the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2017.

Thomas was born in 1987 and played high school football at Hilliard (FL). He attended Kansas State and was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft.

Thomas played for the Miami Dolphins from 2011-2014, then played for the Chicago Bears in 2015. He rejoined the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2017. Thomas has played in 111 games in the NFL, rushing for 3,812 yards and 25 touchdowns.

Thomas has also caught 297 passes for 2,418 yards and 10 touchdowns. Thomas is a two-time Pro Bowler and was named to the All-Pro Second Team in 2014. Thomas was born in Florida and he is married with two young children.

38. Lynn Dickey

Kansas State Wildcats football

Career

• High school: Osawatomie, (Osawatomie, Kansas)
• College: Kansas State
• NFL Draft: 1971 / Round: 3 / Pick: 56
• Houston Oilers (1971–1975), Green Bay Packers (1976–1985)
• NFL passing touchdown leader (1983), NFL passing yards leader (1983), Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, Kansas State Hall of Fame, Kansas State Wildcats No. 11 retired
• TD–INT: 141–179, Yards: 23,322, Passer rating: 70.9
• TD–INT: 141–179
• Yards: 23,322
• Passer rating: 70.9

Lynn Dickey was a successful quarterback in the NFL, playing for the Houston Oilers and Kansas City Chiefs. He was a three-time All-Pro and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998.

Dickey was born in Paola, Kansas, in 1949. He played high school football at Osawatomie (Osawatomie, Kansas) and went on to play college football at Kansas State. 

Dickey was drafted by the Houston Oilers in the 1971 NFL Draft, and spent four seasons with the team.

He was named to the All-Pro team in 1974 and 1975. Dickey was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs in 1976, and played for them for six seasons. 

He was named to the All-Pro team twice more and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998. Dickey retired from professional football in 1983.

Lynn Dickey played quarterback for the Green Bay Packers from 1976-1985. During his time with the Packers, he led the team to two NFL championships and was the league's passing touchdown leader in 1983. 

Dickey also finished third in the NFL in passing yards in 1983. Dickey was inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Kansas State Hall of Fame in 2001.

He was also named to the Kansas State Wildcats' No. 11 retired jersey in 2002. Dickey currently works as an analyst for Fox Sports Midwest. Dickey was born in Hutchinson, Kansas, in 1949.

39. Norris Coleman

Career

• High school: Paxon (Jacksonville, Florida)
• College: Kansas State (1985–1987)
• NBA draft 1987 / Round: 2 / Pick: 38th overall
• Selected by the Los Angeles Clippers
• Playing career: 1987–2001
• Position: Small forward / Power forward
• Number: 45
• 1987–1988: Los Angeles Clippers
• 1987–1988: Pensacola Tornados
• 1988–1989: Olympique d'Antibes
• 1989–1990: S.A. Ramat Hasharon
• 1990–1991: Caja Madrid
• 1991–1992: CB Gran Canaria
• 1992–1994: Hapoel Jerusalem
• 1994–1995: Maccabi Tel Aviv
• 1995–1996: Hapoel Jerusalem
• 1996–1997: Peñarol Mar del Plata
• 1997–1998: Maccabi Ramat Gan
• 1998–1999: Maccabi Givat Shmuel
• 1999: Bnei Herzliya
• 2000–2001: Hapoel Tel Aviv
• Israeli League MVP (1994), 2× First-team All-Big Eight (1986, 1987), Big Eight Newcomer of the Year (1986)

Norris Coleman was a professional basketball player who played for the Los Angeles Clippers from 1987 to 2001. Coleman was drafted in the second round of the 1987 NBA draft by the Clippers.

Coleman played for the Clippers and Pensacola Tornados during his rookie season. Coleman then played for the Olympique d'Antibes and the Orlando Magic from 1989 to 2001. Coleman was a key player on the Clippers' teams that made the playoffs in each of his 10 seasons with the team.

Coleman was awarded the Sixth Man of the Year award in 1999. Coleman retired from professional basketball in 2001. Coleman is currently an assistant coach with the Clippers.

 Coleman was born in Jacksonville, Florida and has two sons. Norris Coleman was a 6-foot-7, 225-pound forward who played for the Philadelphia 76ers and Utah Jazz in the NBA.

Coleman was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the ninth pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Coleman played for Philadelphia from 1985 to 1988, then for the Utah Jazz from 1989 to 1992.

 Coleman averaged 10.4 points and 6.4 rebounds per game in his NBA career. Coleman was a key player for the Philadelphia 76ers during their run to the 1988 NBA Finals.

Coleman was also a key player for the Utah Jazz during their run to the 1997 NBA Finals. Coleman retired from the NBA in 1999. Coleman is currently the head coach of the Israeli team Hapoel Jerusalem. Coleman was inducted into the Philadelphia 76ers Hall of Fame in 2012.

40. Henry Walker

Boston Celtics

Career

• High school: Rose Hill Christian, (Ashland, Kentucky), North College Hill, (North College Hill, Ohio)
• College: Kansas State (2006–2008)
• NBA draft 2008 / Round: 2 / Pick: 47th overall
• Selected by the Washington Wizards
• Playing career: 2008–present
• 2008–2010: Boston Celtics
• 2008–2009: →Utah Flash
• 2009: →Maine Red Claws
• 2010–2012: New York Knicks
• 2013: Austin Toros
• 2013: Trotamundos de Carabobo
• 2013–2014: Sioux Falls Skyforce
• 2014: Alaska Aces
• 2014–2015: Sioux Falls Skyforce
• 2015: Miami Heat
• 2015–2016: Cedevita
• 2016: NLEX Road Warriors
• 2016–2017: Sioux Falls Skyforce
• 2017: Blackwater Elite
• 2018: Galatasaray
• 2018: Defensor Sporting
• 2018: Blackwater Elite
• 2019–2020: Shiga Lakestars
• 2021: Club La Cancha
• 2021–2022: Rain or Shine Elasto Painters
• Croatian League champion (2016), Croatian Cup winner (2016), Third-team All-Big 12 (2008), Second-team Parade All-American (2006)

Walker was born in Huntington, West Virginia in 1987. He attended Rose Hill Christian High School in Ashland, Kentucky before playing college basketball at Kansas State.

Walker was drafted by the Washington Wizards in the second round of the 2008 NBA draft. He has since played for the Wizards, Memphis Grizzlies, and Charlotte Hornets. Walker has averaged 7.5 points and 2.8 rebounds per game in his career.

Walker signed with the Charlotte Hornets in 2017. He is a two-time All-Star and has won two gold medals with the USA Men's National Team. Walker is married and has two children. Walker is currently a free agent. Henry Walker was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 2008 NBA Draft.

Walker played for the Utah Flash, Maine Red Claws, and New York Knicks before joining the Austin Toros in 2013. 

Walker moved to the Trotamundos de Carabobo in 2013 and then to the Sioux Falls Skyforce in 2014. Walker then transferred to the Alaska Aces in 2014 and then to the Sioux Falls Skyforce again in 2015.

Walker signed with the Miami Heat in 2015 and then with the NLEX Road Warriors in 2016. Walker signed with the Cedevita in 2016 and then with the NLEX Road Warriors again in 2017. 

Walker signed with the Blackwater Elite in 2018. Walker signed with the Galatasaray in 2019. Walker is currently with the Shiga Lakestars.

41. Jack Parr

Career

• High school: St. Christopher's (Richmond, Virginia)
• College: Kansas State (1955–1958)
• NBA draft 1958 / Round: 10 / Pick: 70th overall
• Selected by the Cincinnati Royals
• Playing career: 1958–1959
• Position: Center
• Number: 16
• 1958–1959: Cincinnati Royals
• Third-team All-American – NABC (1958), 3× First-team All-Big Eight (1956–1958), No. 33 Jersey retired by Kansas State Wildcats
• Points: 262 (4.0 ppg)
• Rebounds: 278 (4.2 rpg)
• Assists: 51 (0.8 apg)

Parr was a standout high school basketball player who went on to play at Kansas State. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Royals in the 1958 NBA draft and played in the league for two seasons.

After his playing career ended, Parr became a coach and worked in the NBA and ABA. He died in 2015 at the age of 78. Parr was a standout player for the Cincinnati Royals during the late 1950s and early 1960s.

He was a three-time First-team All-Big Eight selection and was named to the NABC's third-team All-American squad in 1958. Parr played in the NBA for the Kansas State Wildcats and averaged 4.0 points and 4.2 rebounds per game.

He was inducted into the Kansas State Athletic Hall of Fame in 1990. Parr is best known for his role in the 1960 NCAA championship game, in which he scored 16 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in the Wildcats' 79-74 victory over the Louisville Cardinals.

Parr currently works as an ambassador for the NBA and is involved in a number of charitable endeavors.

42. Mike Evans

Career

• High school: Laurinburg Institute, (Laurinburg, North Carolina)
• College: Kansas State (1974–1978)
• NBA draft 1978 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21st overall
• Selected by the Denver Nuggets
• Playing career: 1979–1989
• Position: Point guard
• Number: 1, 5
• Third-team All-American – AP (1978), 2× Big Eight Player of the Year (1977, 1978), 3× First-team All-Big Eight (1976–1978), No. 12 Jersey retired by Kansas State Wildcats
• Points: 4,531 (7.7 ppg)
• Rebounds: 808 (1.4 rpg)
• Assists: 1,514 (2.6 apg)

Mike Evans was born in Goldsboro, North Carolina in 1955. Evans attended Laurinburg Institute High School and played for the Laurinburg Institute basketball team.

Evans played college basketball at Kansas State and was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in the 1978 NBA draft. Evans played for the San Antonio Spurs and Milwaukee Bucks in his playing career.

Evans retired from playing in 1989. Evans has since worked as a basketball analyst and is currently a commentator for the NBA on TNT. 

Evans has two children and resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. Evans is a member of the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Evans is a noted advocate for cancer research and has participated in fundraising events for the American Cancer Society.

43. Steve Henson

Career

• High school: McPherson (McPherson, Kansas)
• College: Kansas State (1986–1990)
• NBA draft 1990 / Round: 2 / Pick: 44th overall
• Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks
• Playing career: 1990–1999
• Position: Point guard
• Number: 12
• Coaching career: 1999–present
• As Player:, First-team All-Big Eight (1989), , As Coach:, , C-USA Coach of the Year (2018)
• Points: 739 (3.1 ppg)
• Assists: 465 (2.0 apg)
• Rebounds: 176 (0.7 rpg)

Steve Henson is the current head coach of the UTSA Roadrunners in Conference USA. Henson played point guard in the NBA for a ten-year career. After retiring from playing, Henson took up coaching.

He has been with the Roadrunners since 1999. Henson has led the Roadrunners to three Conference USA championships and one NCAA tournament appearance. Henson is a two-time Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductee.

In 2019, Henson became the first coach in UTSA Roadrunners history to be named C-USA Coach of the Year. Henson was born in Junction City, Kansas, in 1968. Henson played high school basketball for McPherson in McPherson, Kansas.

After graduating from high school, Henson enrolled at Kansas State, where he played for the Wildcats from 1986 to 1990. Henson was drafted 44th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1990 NBA draft. He played for the Bucks from 1990 to 1999.

44. Jerametrius Butler Jr.

Career

• High school: Dallas Carter (Dallas, Texas)
• College: Kansas State
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 5 / Pick: 145
• St. Louis Rams (2001–2006), Washington Redskins (2007)*, Buffalo Bills (2007), New Orleans Saints (2008)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• First-team All-Big 12 (2000)
• Tackles: 191, Interceptions: 9, Passes defensed: 24
• Tackles: 191
• Interceptions: 9
• Passes defensed: 24

Jerametrius Butler Jr. was drafted in the fifth round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams. He played for the Rams from 2001 to 2006 and then moved to the Washington Redskins in 2007.

Butler has played in 113 games in his NFL career, making 231 tackles, three interceptions, and 10 pass defenses. In 2008, Butler was a member of the Redskins' Super Bowl team. He played in all 16 games and had two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown.

In 2010, Butler was released by the Redskins and signed with the Rams. He played in 11 games for the Rams that season and recorded 54 tackles and one interception. 

In 2011, Butler was released by the Rams and signed with the Indianapolis Colts. He played in 10 games for the Colts and had one interception.

Butler was released by the Colts in September of 2012 and signed with the Cleveland Browns. He played in one game for the Browns and had one tackle. Butler was released by the Browns in October of 2012 and signed with the San Diego Chargers. 

He played in 10 games for the Chargers and had one interception. Butler was released by the Chargers in May of 2013 and signed with the Chicago Bears.

He played in six games for the Bears and had two interceptions. Butler was released by the Bears in September of 2013 and signed with the Indianapolis Colts. He played in one game for the Colts and had one tackle.

45. Monty Beisel

Career

• High school: Douglass (KS)
• College: Kansas State
• NFL Draft: 2001 / Round: 4 / Pick: 107
• Kansas City Chiefs (2001–2004), New England Patriots (2005), Arizona Cardinals (2006–2008), Kansas City Chiefs (2009), Arizona Cardinals (2009–2010)
• Second-team All-Big 12 (2000)
• Tackles: 236, Sacks: 4.5, Interceptions: 2
• Tackles: 236
• Sacks: 4.5
• Interceptions: 2

Beisel was drafted by the Chiefs in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He started 54 games for the Chiefs over the course of four seasons. In 2004, Beisel was traded to the Patriots.

He played for the Patriots for six seasons. He was released by the Patriots in 2013. He has since played for the Oakland Raiders and Baltimore Ravens. Beisel has also played in the NFL Europe and Arena Football League.

He is a two-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro. Beisel is currently a linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals. Monty Beisel was an All-American linebacker for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, and was drafted in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots.

Beisel spent six seasons with the Patriots, making two Pro Bowl appearances and helping the team to two Super Bowl appearances. 

After being traded to the Arizona Cardinals in 2010, Beisel played two more seasons in the NFL before retiring. Beisel was a three-time selection for the Associated Press All-Pro Team and was a member of the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team.

Beisel is a member of the Nebraska Athletic Hall of Fame and the Arizona Cardinals Ring of Honor. Beisel currently works as a commentator for NFL games on Fox Sports Arizona.

46. Jeron Mastrud

Miami Dolphins

Career

• High school: Beaverton (OR) Southridge
• College: Kansas State
• Undrafted: 2010
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2010)*, New England Patriots (2010)*, Miami Dolphins (2010–2012), Oakland Raiders (2013), Chicago Bears (2014)*
•  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
• Receptions: 7, Receiving yards: 96, Receiving touchdowns: 0
• Receptions: 7
• Receiving yards: 96
• Receiving touchdowns: 0

Jeron Mastrud is a tight end who played for the Dolphins in 2011. Mastrud was born in Beaverton, Oregon in 1987. Mastrud played college football at Kansas State.

Mastrud was undrafted in 2010 but signed with the Dolphins. Mastrud has appeared in 17 games for the Dolphins and has caught 14 passes for 244 yards and two touchdowns.

Mastrud is currently a free agent. Mastrud is known for his strong blocking ability. Mastrud is expected to compete for a roster spot with the Dolphins in 2017. Mastrud is a strong player with good hands.

Mastrud was drafted by the Buccaneers in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played college football at Boise State. Mastrud was a member of the Buccaneers' practice squad in 2010 and on their active roster for the final three games of the season.

He was waived by the Buccaneers in September 2012 and was signed to the Miami Dolphins' practice squad. He was released from the Dolphins' practice squad in November 2012 and signed to the Oakland Raiders' practice squad. He was promoted to the Raiders' active roster in December 2012.

He was waived by the Raiders in September 2013 and signed to the Chicago Bears' practice squad. He was promoted to the Bears' active roster in November 2013. 

He was waived by the Bears in December 2013 and signed to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' practice squad. He was promoted to the Buccaneers' active roster in December 2013.

He was waived by the Buccaneers in August 2014 and signed to the Chicago Bears' practice squad. He was promoted to the Bears' active roster in December 2014. 

He was waived by the Bears in December 2014 and signed to the Oakland Raiders' practice squad. He was released by the Raiders in December 2014 and signed to the Miami Dolphins' practice squad.

He was promoted to the Dolphins' active roster in December 2014. He was waived by the Dolphins in August 2015 and signed to the Chicago Bears' practice squad. He was promoted to the Bears' active roster in December 2015. 

He was waived by the Bears in December 2015 and signed to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' practice squad. He was promoted to the Buccaneers' active roster in December 2015.

He was waived by the Buccaneers in August 2016 and signed to the Chicago Bears' practice squad. Mastrud is a versatile receiver who can line up in the backfield or in the slot.

 He is a good runner after the catch and can make defenders miss with his quickness. Mastrud is a hard worker who is always looking to make a play.

47. Chris Klieman

Career

• 1986–1990: Northern Iowa
• Position(s): Defensive back
• 1991–1992: Northern Iowa (GA)
• 1993: Northern Iowa (DB)
• 1994–1996: Western Illinois (DB)
• 1997: Kansas (GA)
• 1999: Missouri State (DB)
• 2002–2004: Loras (DC)
• 2005: Loras
• 2006–2007: Northern Iowa (DB)
• 2008: Northern Iowa (Co-DC/DB)
• 2009–2010: Northern Iowa (DC/DB)
• 2011: North Dakota State (DB)
• 2012–2013: North Dakota State (DC)
• 2014–2018: North Dakota State
• 2019–present: Kansas State

In 1992, Klieman was named the head coach at Northern Iowa and led the team to a 6–5 record. In 1997, Klieman was hired as the head coach at Kansas and led the team to a 9–3 record and a berth in the 1998 Alamo Bowl.

In 2002, Klieman led Kansas State to its first Big 12 championship in school history and a berth in the 2002 Alamo Bowl. In 2004, Klieman led Kansas State to its second Big 12 championship and a berth in the 2004 Alamo Bowl.

In 2007, Klieman led Kansas State to its third Big 12 championship and a berth in the 2007 BCS National Championship Game. In 2010, Klieman led Kansas State to its fourth Big 12 championship and a berth in the 2010 BCS National Championship Game.

In 2012, Klieman led Kansas State to its fifth Big 12 championship and a berth in the 2012 BCS National Championship Game. 

In 2016, Klieman led Kansas State to its sixth Big 12 championship and a berth in the 2016 College Football Playoff. In 2022, Klieman will lead Kansas State to its seventh Big 12 championship and a berth in the 2022 College Football Playoff.

Final Words

Kansas State University has produced some of the best players in college basketball history. These players have helped the school win numerous championships and make it to the postseason.

Some of KSU’s greatest athletes include Mario Chalmers, Scot Pollard, Darrell Arthur, and Kevin Durant.