Kansas State freshman Linkon Cure is realizing his dream of playing for the Wildcats, a journey that reflects both extraordinary talent and significant challenges. Hailing from Goodland, Kansas, Cure emerged as the first five-star football prospect in the university’s history. As the No. 30 overall player in the 2025 recruiting class, according to 247Sports, his athletic prowess has made headlines across the nation.
Cure’s remarkable high school career includes impressive statistics, with 1,049 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns, alongside 208 rushing yards and six rushing scores in his final season. His achievements earned him first-team all-state honors during both his junior and senior years, and he was recognized on the 247Sports 2025 Freaks List, coming in at No. 16. Beyond football, Cure showcased his versatility as a multi-sport athlete, winning state championships in track and field, particularly in the 300-meter hurdles and 110-meter hurdles, where he set a new state record with a time of 14.36 seconds.
Cure’s athletic lineage is notable; he was born in Wray, Colorado, and grew up in a family steeped in sports. His brother, Leyton Cure, played football at Fort Hays State and Kansas, while his sister, Lindsey Cure, competes in volleyball at Regis University. His cousin, Mitch Unrein, enjoyed a successful seven-year career in the NFL.
Despite interest from major programs like Kansas, Oregon, and Texas A&M, Cure chose Kansas State, fulfilling a lifelong aspiration. “It’s a dream come true,” he stated.
Cure decided not to graduate early, opting to complete his commitments in basketball and track, which delayed his arrival on campus and led him to miss all of fall camp. Shortly after he began training, he sustained a knee injury, complicating his transition from small-school football in Kansas to the competitive landscape of the Big 12.
As a result of depth at tight end, coaches shifted Cure to wide receiver, requiring him to adapt to two positions quickly. Reflecting on his experiences, Cure remarked, “It’s been rough. 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 acknowledged the challenges Cure faced. The late start meant that Cure had to be “spoonfed” into the program, and the pressure of being a five-star recruit added to the intensity of his situation. “When you come in as highly touted as he, and the expectations, those are hard for a young person to handle coming in here,” Klieman noted.
Cure initially spent time on the scout team, diligently working to adjust to the demands of Power 4 football. Klieman commended Cure’s attitude and expressed confidence in his potential, stating, “Sky’s the limit for him still.” He confirmed that tight end remains Cure’s long-term position, while Cure believes that his experience at receiver will enhance his performance in the future.
In his first seven games, Cure has recorded five catches for 32 yards, including a season-high of 21 snaps in the Wildcats’ recent victory over Oklahoma State. Reflecting on his journey, Cure captured his emotions succinctly: “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.”
Linkon Cure’s story illustrates not only his athletic talent but also the resilience and determination required to succeed at the collegiate level. His journey from a small-town standout to a key player at Kansas State serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.