Kansas State University freshman Linkon Cure is embracing the challenges of his first season with the Wildcats after a remarkable journey from high school standout to a highly regarded college athlete. As the first five-star football prospect in Kansas State history, Cure has quickly become a figure of interest in college football, earning the No. 30 overall ranking in the 2025 class according to 247Sports.
Before arriving at Kansas State, Cure’s impressive high school career in Goodland, Kansas, included a staggering **1,049 receiving yards** and **17 touchdowns**. He also showcased versatility with **208 rushing yards** and six rushing touchdowns during his senior year. His achievements earned him first-team all-state honors in both his junior and senior years, along with a spot on the 247Sports 2025 Freaks List, ranking him at No. 16.
Cure’s athletic prowess extends beyond the football field. He has found success in track and field, where he captured two state championships in the **300-meter hurdles** and set a state record with a time of **14.36 seconds** in the **110-meter hurdles**. Additionally, he displayed his competitive spirit in basketball, making him a well-rounded athlete revered in Kansas.
Growing up in Wray, Colorado, Cure was immersed in a sports-oriented family. His brother Leyton played football at Fort Hays State and the University of Kansas, while his sister Lindsey competes in volleyball at Regis University. His cousin, Mitch Unrein, enjoyed a successful seven-year career in the NFL. Despite receiving offers from prestigious programs such as Kansas, Oregon, and Texas A&M, Cure ultimately chose to play for the Wildcats, stating, “It’s a dream come true.”
Cure opted to complete his basketball and track seasons before joining the football team, which delayed his arrival on campus and caused him to miss all of fall camp. Shortly after joining the Wildcats, he encountered a knee injury, which made the transition to the competitive landscape of the Big 12 even more challenging. Coaches responded by shifting him from tight end to wide receiver, requiring him to learn two positions simultaneously.
“It’s been rough,” Cure acknowledged. “But it shows a lot about my perseverance, and I just think that it’s been a lot of fun. I love being out there.”
Head coach Chris Klieman recognized the obstacles Cure faced, noting that missing fall camp meant he had to be “spoonfed” into the team’s playbook. The expectations surrounding a five-star recruit can be overwhelming, and Klieman stated, “When you come in as highly touted as he is, the expectations are hard for a young person to handle.”
Early in the season, Cure spent time on the scout team, putting in the work to adapt to the Power 4 level of competition. Klieman commended Cure’s attitude and remains optimistic about his development. “The sky’s the limit for him still,” he said, while also confirming that tight end will be Cure’s long-term position. Cure believes that the experience he gains as a receiver will ultimately enhance his skills.
Reflecting on his journey, Cure expressed the emotional significance of his current experience. “I sat there as a kid watching, and now I have the ability to do it. It’s been awesome. It’s just been a dream come true.”
In his first seven games, Cure has recorded five catches for **32 yards**, with a season-high of **21 snaps** during a recent victory over Oklahoma State. As he continues to navigate the challenges of college football, Cure’s determination and passion for the game remain evident. His story embodies the spirit of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams in the world of sports.
