Kansas State football coach Chris Klieman on Wildcats’ offensive line
Kansas State football coach Chris Klieman talks about the Wildcats’ offensive line prospects during Big 12 Media Day
Kansas State football coach Chris Klieman had penciled in Ohio State transfer George Fitzpatrick as the Wildcats’ starting left offensive tackle.
That may have changed last week when Fitzpatrick suffered a medical emergency during summer workouts, though he is now recovering according to a statement released Monday by K-State football and the Fitzpatrick family.
“George had a medical situation to which the training staff quickly responded,” the statement said. “He is improving every day, and we appreciate all who have cared for and supported him as he continues to recover.”
Fitzpatrick, a 6-foot-6, 309-pound junior from Englewood, Colorado, joined the Wildcats in January after helping Ohio State to a national championship. He appeared in all 16 games for the Buckeyes as a reserve offensive lineman.
While his immediate status is uncertain, Klieman said earlier this month during Big 12 Media Day that Fitzpatrick had all but nailed down the left tackle spot in spring practice.
“George Fitzpatrick is one that was here in the spring that elevated himself to the top of the depth chart at left tackle,” Klieman said. “The other three transfers we’re excited to see this fall and this summer, so we can figure out where they fit in and how much they’re going to help us, because they’re going to help us.”
K-State players reported for preseason camp Tuesday and will hold the first practice Wednesday as they begin preparations for their Week 0 opener Aug. 23 against Big 12 rival Iowa State in Dublin, Ireland.
Arne Green is based in Salina and covers Kansas State University sports for the Gannett network. He can be reached at agreen@gannett.com or on X (formerly Twitter) at @arnegreen.