MANHATTAN — Over the past three years since the NCAA’s introduction of the one-time transfer rule, Kansas State University had experienced relatively minimal losses to the transfer portal. However, the aftermath of last Saturday’s 42-35 defeat against Iowa State has seen a stark increase in departures, with 11 players opting to seek new opportunities even before learning their bowl destination.

Among the notable departures was senior starting quarterback Will Howard, who decided to forego the bowl game in pursuit of opportunities for a fifth year, a provision granted to veterans of the 2020 pandemic. Howard, having started all 12 games for the 8-4 Wildcats, departs as the school’s career record holder with 44 touchdown passes and played a pivotal role in securing a Big 12 championship as a junior.

While Howard’s departure was somewhat anticipated, given the competition from freshman Avery Johnson, Kansas State also bids farewell to running back Treshaun Ward, a transfer from Florida State who made significant contributions throughout the season. Despite his productive tenure, Ward faced a formidable challenge from sophomore DJ Giddens, a 1,000-yard rusher, for the upcoming season’s starting role.

Defensively, sophomore Will Lee, a junior college transfer who started for much of the year, saw reduced playing time as senior Keenan Garber gained prominence. Garber, originally a wide receiver, is set to return as a fifth-year super-senior next season alongside established starter Jacob Parrish.

While other departures included players such as quarterbacks Jake Rubley and Adryan Lara, their decisions leave Johnson as the sole scholarship quarterback for the Wildcats moving forward.

The influx of transfers highlights the evolving landscape of college football, where player mobility continues to reshape team dynamics and roster compositions. Kansas State now faces the challenge of rebuilding depth and cohesion ahead of the next season amidst these significant departures.

For more updates on Kansas State University sports, follow Arne Green on Twitter at @arnegreen or contact him via email at agreen@gannett.com.

 

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