Just weeks before the start of the 2025 season, Kansas State’s plans at left tackle have been thrown into uncertainty as junior George Fitzpatrick recovers from a medical emergency suffered during summer workouts.
The 6-foot-6, 309-pound transfer from Ohio State was recently named the Wildcats’ starting left tackle by head coach Chris Klieman during Big 12 Media Days, raising hopes for a strong offensive front.
In an official statement, the team confirmed that Fitzpatrick received immediate attention from the training staff and is steadily improving, thanking those who have shown support during his recovery.
Fitzpatrick, who appeared in all 16 games for the national champion Buckeyes in 2024 and played a season-high 22 snaps against Western Michigan, now reunites at K-State with former teammate Gabe Powers.
Fellow ex-Buckeye Ian Moore also called for prayers on social media, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
His absence comes at a critical time for a Kansas State offensive line in transition, having lost both starting tackles from last season—one to the NFL Draft and the other to the transfer portal.
While the team returns veteran talent on the interior, including center Sam Hecht and guard Taylor Poitier, and brings in experienced transfers and redshirt freshmen to fill the gaps, Fitzpatrick was expected to anchor the rebuilt unit.
George Fitzpatri
With quarterback Avery Johnson returning after a breakout year and surrounded by explosive offensive weapons, and a defense led by seasoned players like Austin Romaine and V.J. Payne, expectations are sky-high.
George Fitzpatri
K-State enters 2025 ranked as high as No. 12 in national polls and opens the season in Dublin against Iowa State on August 23. But amid championship aspirations, the team’s focus has shifted to Fitzpatrick’s health, as the Wildcats rally around their recovering left tackle.
