Eric Boggs
Former Ohio State linebacker Gabe Powers has announced his decision to continue his college football career at Kansas State. Powers signed with the Wildcats on Friday, following his entry into the transfer portal earlier this month. The move marks a fresh start for Powers, who brings two years of eligibility to Kansas State after three seasons at Ohio State.
While Powers’ time as a Buckeye included limited playing opportunities, he made an impact this season with a notable interception returned for a touchdown during Ohio State’s season-opening win over Akron. Over his three years in Columbus, Powers recorded five tackles and showcased glimpses of his potential despite being part of a deep linebacker unit.
Powers’ departure from Ohio State comes amidst a competitive linebacker landscape. With standout talents such as Sonny Styles, Arvell Reese, and Payton Pierce emerging as key contributors, Powers was likely to remain in a backup role next season. C.J. Hicks also remains a factor, potentially shifting between linebacker and edge roles. Given this depth, Powers opted to explore new opportunities elsewhere.
Kansas State proved to be an appealing destination for Powers, who also considered Minnesota, North Carolina, and Wisconsin during the transfer process. His commitment to the Wildcats makes him the second Buckeye to transfer since the conclusion of the regular season, following wide receiver Jayden Ballard’s move to Wisconsin earlier this week. Powers joins a Kansas State roster looking to build on its defensive depth as the team eyes continued success under head coach Chris Klieman.
The Wildcats’ offseason has seen notable changes, including the departure of star running back DJ Giddens, who declared for the 2025 NFL Draft after a stellar collegiate career. As Giddens moves on, Kansas State will turn to Dylan Edwards to lead its rushing attack. Edwards transferred from Colorado and impressed with his versatility and explosiveness, accumulating 350 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 56 carries last season. He also added 156 receiving yards and a touchdown through the air, showcasing his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game.
Head coach Chris Klieman expressed enthusiasm about Edwards’ potential as a premier back. “He’s so versatile,” Klieman said. “He can line up as a single back, in a two-back set, flex out as a receiver, or take jet sweeps. He runs great routes, which is critical for us.” Edwards’ emergence, paired with promising glimpses from Joe Jackson earlier in the season, positions Kansas State for a strong running game moving forward. The duo is expected to showcase their talents in the upcoming Rate Bowl against Rutgers, a crucial opportunity for both players to establish themselves as the Wildcats’ go-to backs.
With Powers bolstering the defensive lineup and Edwards stepping into a key offensive role, Kansas State looks to maintain its momentum in the competitive Big 12 landscape. For both Powers and the Wildcats, this next chapter holds promise and opportunity.
