UPDATE: Kansas State’s freshman sensation, Linkon Cure, is making headlines as he navigates a challenging start to his college football career. Just announced, Cure’s journey from small-town Goodland, Kansas to becoming the first five-star prospect in Kansas State history is nothing short of extraordinary.
Cure, ranked as the No. 30 overall player in the 2025 class by 247Sports, has been a beacon of hope and determination for the Wildcats. With impressive high school stats including 1,049 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns, he has always been a standout athlete. His athletic prowess extends beyond football, having earned state championships in track and field, shattering records in the 110-meter hurdles.
Despite offers from major programs like Kansas, Oregon, and Texas A&M, Cure chose to fulfill his lifelong dream of playing for Kansas State. “It’s a dream come true,” he exclaimed, highlighting the emotional weight of his commitment.
However, the road to success has not been easy. Cure opted to complete his basketball and track seasons before joining the Wildcats, causing him to miss fall camp. Shortly after arriving, he suffered a knee injury that compounded the challenges he faced transitioning from small-school football to the Big 12 level.
Head Coach Chris Klieman acknowledged the uphill battle Cure is facing, stating that missing camp forced the coaching staff to “spoonfeed” him into the system. The pressure of being a highly touted recruit adds to the spotlight on the young athlete. “The expectations are hard for a young person to handle,” Klieman commented.
Cure initially joined the scout team, working hard to adjust to the intensity of Power 4 football. His perseverance is commendable, as he expressed, “It’s been rough. But it shows a lot about my perseverance… I love being out there.” As he adapts, he has already made five catches for 32 yards in just seven games, playing a season-high 21 snaps in the Wildcats’ recent win over Oklahoma State.
Cure’s determination and work ethic have not gone unnoticed, and Klieman remains optimistic about his future. “Sky’s the limit for him still,” Klieman stated, confirming that tight end remains Cure’s long-term position. He believes the experience gained as a receiver will only enhance Cure’s skills moving forward.
Reflecting on his journey, Cure encapsulated his feelings perfectly: “I sat there as a kid watching, and now I have the ability to do it. It’s just been a dream come true.” As he continues to face challenges in his freshman season, Cure’s story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and ambition in sports.
Stay tuned for more updates on Cure’s progress and the Wildcats as they aim for a successful season.
