Kansas State has strengthened its defense with the addition of a top Conference USA linebacker via the transfer portal. The move comes as the Wildcats work to replace key departures and bolster depth in the middle of the field.
The linebacker in question is Mekhi Mason, a 6-foot-2, 230-pound standout from Louisiana Tech. Mason recorded 68 tackles last season, including 14.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks, while also breaking up four passes. His best game came against LSU, where he notched 11 tackles. Mason earned All-Conference USA Second Team honors for his performance in 2025 and is expected to compete immediately for a starting role at K-State.
Mason began his college career at Syracuse, playing in all 12 games as a sophomore and recording 28 tackles before transferring to Louisiana Tech, where he flourished over the past two seasons. His experience and playmaking ability make him a significant boost to Kansas State’s linebacker corps, especially following the transfer of Austin Romaine to Texas Tech.
Mason’s commitment follows an active portal day for the Wildcats, who also added:
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Koy Beasley, defensive back from Miami of Ohio
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Dylan Davidson, punter from Emporia State
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Rodney Fields, running back from Oklahoma State
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De’Arieun Hicks, defensive lineman from Gardner-Webb
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Keiton Jones, offensive lineman from Missouri
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Jacobi Oliphant, linebacker from Oklahoma State
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Kaleb Patterson, defensive back from Illinois
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Izaiah Williams, wide receiver from Texas A&M
With Mason now on board, Kansas State strengthens its defense with a proven playmaker capable of stepping into a key role immediately, giving the Wildcats momentum as they prepare for the 2026 season.
