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Wildcats Confident in Young Cornerback Talent to Replace Starters
30 Jul
Summary
- Kansas State must replace both starting cornerbacks for 2025 season
- Sophomores Zashon Rich and Donovan McIntosh gained valuable experience in 2024
- Transfer Jayden Rowe from Oklahoma adds size and athleticism to the cornerback group

As the 2025 Kansas State football season opener approaches, the Wildcats are facing a significant rebuilding effort in their defensive secondary, especially at the cornerback position. Both of the team's starting cornerbacks from the previous season, Jacob Parrish and Keenan Garber, have departed - Parrish was drafted by the NFL, while Garber exhausted his eligibility.
However, head coach Chris Klieman and his staff are not overly concerned about the situation. They believe they have a nice balance of youth and experience ready to step in and fill the void. Sophomores Zashon Rich and Donovan McIntosh, who both saw limited playing time in 2024 but gained valuable experience, are expected to take on larger roles this season. Additionally, the Wildcats have brought in junior transfer Jayden Rowe from Oklahoma, who adds size and athleticism to the cornerback group.
Justice Clemons, a super-senior who has played meaningful snaps over the past two seasons, is also expected to contribute significantly. The coaching staff is excited about the leadership and experience he brings to the table.
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Despite the need to replace both starting cornerbacks, Klieman and his assistant head coach Van Malone are confident that the Wildcats have the talent and depth to maintain a strong defensive secondary in 2025.