Kansas State has built its identity around physical football for years, and that won’t change in 2026.

The Wildcats enter the season with plenty of questions surrounding the defense, particularly as new pieces work their way into important roles. But there is also plenty of talent on that side of the football. If several key players take the next step, Kansas State could have a defense that makes life difficult for opposing offenses all season.

Here are three defensive players worth watching closely.

Wendell Gregory Could Become the Face of the Defense

If Kansas State is going to develop a disruptive pass rush, Wendell Gregory could be the player who makes it happen. Gregory enters 2026 with significant expectations after transferring from Oklahoma State. The 6-foot-3, 265-pound defensive end has the size to play a physical game at the line of scrimmage while also possessing the athleticism to create problems as a pass rusher. Last year at Oklahoma State, Gregory had 12 tackles for a loss and four sacks.

What makes Gregory particularly intriguing is the potential for him to become more than simply a rotational defensive lineman. Kansas State needs someone offenses have to account for on every passing down. That means Gregory has an opportunity to establish himself as the centerpiece of the Wildcats’ defensive front.

He will have to prove he can consistently win against offensive tackles, but if he does, the impact could extend beyond his own statistics. Double teams and extra attention could create opportunities for the rest of Kansas State’s front seven. For a defense looking for an identity, having an edge rusher capable of changing games is a major advantage.

Gabe Powers Brings Experience to the Linebacker Room

The linebacker position could be another strength for Kansas State, and Gabe Powers is one of the biggest reasons why. Powers arrives with Power Four experience and gives the Wildcats an experienced, physical presence in the middle of the defense. At 6-foot-3 and 233 pounds, he has the frame to handle the physical demands of playing linebacker while providing enough athleticism to contribute in coverage.

Kansas State will need its linebackers to do more than simply stop the run. Modern offenses force linebackers to make decisions in space, cover backs and tight ends, and quickly diagnose whether a play is developing as a run or pass. Powers’ versatility could make him valuable in those situations.

The biggest question is how quickly he becomes comfortable in Kansas State’s system. If Powers can settle into a leadership role and consistently make plays near the football, he could become one of the more important players on the defense.

Koy Beasley Could Be a Difference-Maker in the Secondary

Koy Beasley may not receive the same preseason attention as Gregory, but he could end up being one of Kansas State’s most important defensive players. The Miami (Ohio) transfer brings experience to a secondary that will be under pressure to hold up against some of the Big 12’s talented passing attacks.

Beasley played 647 defensive snaps in 2025 and finished with 40 tackles, an interception and seven passes defended. Those numbers suggest a player who was already heavily involved in his previous defense.

Now he gets an opportunity to take on a bigger role at Kansas State. Safety is a position where communication and instincts are critical. A mistake in the secondary can turn into a touchdown, while a well-timed read can completely change a possession.

Beasley’s experience should help him compete for a significant role immediately. If he can become a dependable presence on the back end, Kansas State’s defense could be much more difficult to attack vertically.

Kansas State Needs These Players to Step Up

The Wildcats don’t necessarily need every defensive player to become a star. They need their most talented players to become reliable difference-makers.

Gregory has the potential to anchor the defensive line. Powers could provide stability and physicality at linebacker. Beasley could give the secondary an experienced playmaker.

The biggest challenge will be consistency. Kansas State can’t afford to have its defense disappear for stretches against quality competition. The Wildcats need their best players to make plays when the game is on the line.

If Gregory becomes a legitimate pass-rushing threat, Powers controls the middle of the field, and Beasley provides stability in the secondary, Kansas State could have the foundation of a very good defense.