In what’s quickly becoming one of the Midwest’s most intriguing recruiting storylines, Kansas State has officially entered the race for Kobe Rhymes, a top linebacker prospect out of Missouri, putting a bold NIL-backed offer on the table as the Wildcats look to outmaneuver regional rival Mizzou and a wave of national powerhouses.
Rhymes, a 6-foot-1, 225-pound linebacker from North Kansas City High School, is already turning heads as a Class of 2027 standout, currently ranked as the No. 3 overall prospect in Missouri, per 247Sports. Known for his sideline-to-sideline range, elite tackling instincts, and high football IQ, Rhymes is widely regarded as one of the premier young defensive prospects in the country.
On May 13, Rhymes announced via social media that he received a scholarship offer from Kansas State, and sources close to the program say the Wildcats are not playing small ball.
“Kobe is a top priority,” said one K-State staffer familiar with the recruiting effort. “He fits our identity — physical, smart, and fearless. We’re making it clear he’d be a cornerstone here.”
NIL Power Play
With the evolution of recruiting in the NIL era, Kansas State is reportedly making a major financial and branding pitch to Rhymes — including potential partnerships through the university’s growing NIL collective, strategic brand exposure, and guaranteed support in building his personal profile as a high-profile athlete.
“K-State is making a serious offer. We’re talking real money, real marketing opportunities, and a plan to turn Kobe into a national name,” said a regional recruiting analyst. “This is the kind of move that shows Kansas State isn’t just trying to keep up — they’re trying to win big.”
Though specific figures haven’t been made public, insiders suggest the Wildcats’ NIL proposal is comparable to those offered by SEC schools, putting them squarely in the mix against programs with historically deeper pockets.
The Competition Is Fierce
Kansas State isn’t alone in this pursuit. Rhymes already holds offers from a who’s-who of college football:
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Michigan
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Oregon
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Tennessee
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Nebraska
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Ole Miss
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Missouri
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Arizona State
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Iowa State
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Kansas
Of all those suitors, Missouri — the in-state program — may pose the biggest threat. Mizzou has been working overtime to lock down the state’s best talent in recent years, buoyed by a strong 2024 season and an aggressive NIL structure through its “Every True Tiger” collective.
Why Kobe Rhymes Matters
Rhymes isn’t just a linebacker — he’s a culture-setter. As a sophomore in 2024, he recorded over 110 tackles, 5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles, anchoring a North Kansas City defense that made a deep run in Missouri’s Class 6 playoffs. Coaches praise his vocal leadership, film-room intelligence, and maturity well beyond his years.
He’s projected to be a Day 1 starter at the collegiate level and has even drawn early comparisons to former Kansas State great Arthur Brown and All-Big 12 standout Felix Anudike-Uzomah in terms of defensive impact.
What’s Next?
Rhymes is expected to attend several summer camps and unofficial visits, including stops at Kansas State, Missouri, and Michigan. A decision isn’t likely until late in his junior year, but sources say he and his camp are paying close attention to NIL structure, program fit, and development track records.
For Kansas State, this recruitment isn’t just about one player — it’s about planting their flag in a new era of college football.
“We’re not here to be a second choice,” said one Kansas State assistant coach. “We’re here to build champions — and Kobe Rhymes can be one of them.”
Bottom Line: Kansas State has fired a major shot in the Midwest recruiting wars. Now, the question is — can they close the deal, or will one of college football’s blue bloods reel in the big fish?
Stay tuned.
