The workhorse is back, but there will be a lot of changes to the running back depth chart next season. The Junction City native, DJ Giddens, has established himself as one of the best running backs in college football. However, the exit of Treshaun Districtleft a big hole on the depth chart behind Giddens entering this season.
Enter Dylan Edwards, one of the fastest players in the country, and some young running backs who are ready to contribute. This should be an electrifying group, with Giddens leading the way.
ELIGIBILITY TABLE
2024 Eligibility Chart – RBs
THE GIFT
Filling shoes with Deuce Vaughn It was not an easy task, but DJ Giddens took on the task and did extremely well. Giddens had six-plus games last season rushing for more than 100 yards. Against UCF last season, Giddens had over 200 rushing yards and four touchdowns.
His biggest improvement last season was his reception work. He led all Big 12 running backs in receiving touchdowns and yards per catch. He is developing into a complete running back and is ready for an even bigger season next year.
With a strong season, I think it will be Giddens’ last season as a Wildcat. If he continues to be the physical running back he is while also contributing in the passing game, the NFL will become more of a reality. With longevity concerns for running backs, declaring early for the draft is a common trend.
***
SUBSCRIBE TO EMAW ONLINE WITH A PREMIUM SUBSCRIPTION | DISCUSS ON CAT CAVE FORUM | TWITTER: @RivalsFielder, @EMAWOnline
***
The future
Many were wondering who would help Giddens at the running back position this season, and it was pretty late into the spring before we found the answer.
Colorado transfer and Derby High School alumnus, Dylan Edwards, is back in his home state with the Wildcats. Edwards can be included at current status as he will contribute a lot next season.
Edwards is exactly the running back you want next to Giddens. Giddens brings the strength, but Edwards brings the speed. He was one of the most elusive defenders in the country last year as a freshman. Edwards will help next year, but will also be a leader alongside quarterback Avery Johnson moving forward.
Behind Edwards, there is likely to be a competition to see who becomes the next man up. La’James White is a veteran running back who knows the system well and will likely be next in line if needed. Joe Jackson It is Devon rice were present during spring camp and may see limited playing time this season. Incoming freshman João Price It also has advantages, but it will probably take a step back this year.
GENERAL HEALTH
The addition of Dylan Edwards brings the potential of this group to one of the best Kansas State has ever seen. As long as DJ Giddens stays healthy, there shouldn’t be any issues next season.
In his two years of playing, Giddens has yet to miss a game. He played in the Wildcats’ last 24 games. With a veteran leading the position like this, the overall health of the room is great.
The potential of defenders outside of Giddens has raised this group’s ceiling to a higher point.
CONCERN LEVEL: LOW
There shouldn’t be any concerns this fall in the running back group.
If Kansas State couldn’t bounce back this spring, there would be some concern. If an injury happens, it will be interesting to see who steps up to fill the void, but there is no reason to stress.
We’ll see if Jackson or Rice step in as a potential weapon this year, but I expect this to be Giddens and Edwards’ show next season, forming one of the best duos in the country.
