As Wendell Gregory stepped onto Kansas State’s practice field for the first time, the echoes of his college football journey were already loud. The former Oklahoma State standout, who now finds himself in the Big 12 again, brings an established track record and a new challenge: filling the void left by Tobi Osunsanmi. Gregory’s journey to Manhattan has been anything but typical—each stop has brought a new chapter, and now he carries high expectations with him.
A Rising Edge in the Transfer Portal
Gregory’s inclusion in the top 50 of ESPN’s transfer portal rankings reflects the buzz around him. The ranking suggests more than just potential—it signals a rising name in the edge rusher class. He had already drawn interest from Texas, Texas Tech, and Missouri, but ultimately stayed in the conference to join a defense hungry for impact. According to the report, Gregory made a strong impression at first glance but saw his production slow down later in the year, prompting some cautious takes about his fit. Still, his raw talent is undeniable.
Kansas State coach Collin Klein sees Gregory as part of a deep, evolving edge rotation. During spring ball press coverage, Klein emphasized the group’s growth and the physical intensity of their training. With names like Felix Anudike-Uzomah and Brendan Mott forming the past, the edge is once again a focal point for the Wildcats. Klein praised the current group of edge rushers for their development and their work ethic. He noted that the team has four or five players who have shown flashes and potential to contribute in big moments.
Last season, Gregory registered 27 tackles with 12 for loss and four sacks for the Cowboys. That output earned him Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year, a rare honor amid a struggling defense. His performance was one of the few highlights for Oklahoma State during a trying season, and it helped build his reputation as a versatile edge defender. Gregory has the tools to disrupt games, but some observers believe he can refine his skills, especially when it comes to playing the run with more finesse.
Now, Kansas State expects Gregory to replicate that impact—without the same support. The defense will be reshaped, and Gregory’s ability to refine his game will determine how much noise he can make at the line. He will step into the shoes of Tobi Osunsanmi, a player who looked poised for a breakout before suffering a season-ending injury. The challenge for Gregory will be adjusting to his third program in three years and proving he can stay consistent under new systems and coaching staffs.