URGENT UPDATE: Kansas State freshman Linkon Cure is opening up about his early struggles on the football field, just weeks into his highly anticipated collegiate career. The standout from Goodland, Kansas, who made history as the first five-star football prospect for Kansas State, is navigating major adjustments after missing fall camp and suffering a knee injury shortly after arriving on campus.
Linkon Cure, ranked as the No. 30 overall player in the 2025 class by 247Sports, has quickly become a name to watch. His impressive high school statistics include 1,049 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns, showcasing his explosive talent. Yet, this transition to the Big 12 has proven challenging as he shifts from tight end to wide receiver, learning two positions in real-time.
“It’s been rough,” Cure admitted. “But it shows a lot about my perseverance, and I just think that it’s been a lot of fun. I love being out there.”
Head coach Chris Klieman acknowledged the steep learning curve for Cure. Missing fall camp meant he had to be “spoonfed” into the system, which has intensified the scrutiny surrounding his five-star status. “When you come in as highly touted as he, those expectations are hard for a young person to handle,” Klieman said.
In his first seven games, Cure has recorded five catches for 32 yards, with a season-high of 21 snaps during the Wildcats’ recent victory over Oklahoma State. Despite the setbacks, Cure remains optimistic about his future. “Sky’s the limit for him still,” Klieman emphasized, confirming that Cure’s long-term position will likely be at tight end.
Cure’s journey to Kansas State is a testament to his athletic versatility. He excelled in track and field, clinching two state championships in the 300-meter hurdles and setting a state record with a time of 14.36 seconds in the 110-meter hurdles. He also showcased his skills on the basketball court, proving his multi-sport prowess.
The weight of expectations is heavy, but Cure is embracing the challenge. “I sat there as a kid watching, and now I have the ability to do it. It’s been awesome. It’s just been a dream come true,” he reflected, perfectly capturing the emotional journey of a young athlete facing the pressures of college sports.
As the Wildcats continue their season, fans and sports analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Linkon Cure adapts and grows in the coming weeks. His story is not just about numbers; it’s about determination, resilience, and the dream of making an impact on the field.
