Sean Gleeson Believes Versatility in K-State Running Back Room Gives Wildcats High Ceiling

As the new offensive coordinator at K-State, Sean Gleeson is gearing up for the 2026 season. The Wildcats have a ton of talent at the skill positions, especially at running back. Leading the way is Joe Jackson, who finished last year with 911 yards and eight touchdowns. He was especially great to end the year, as he rushed for 435 yards and six touchdowns in the final two games against Utah and Colorado.

During the transfer portal, the Wildcats brought in Rodney Fields Jr. and Jay Harris, who transferred from Oklahoma State and Oregon, respectively. Fields had a solid season for the Cowboys, finishing with 614 yards and one touchdown. Harris had a limited role at Oregon and finished with 151 yards and two touchdowns.

For Gleeson, having three guys who are as talented as this trio makes his job much easier. Not only are they all three very good players, but their ability to complement each other is something that Gleeson is very excited for.

"Jay Harris is just incredibly physical," Gleeson told reporters during a press conference. I would not want to tackle him. I think I talked about him being on scout team, being like Ed Reed running around. He just does everything super physical, extra effort all the time. Joe Jackson is just like a consummate vet. He's very smart, makes the right cut when you need make the right cut. Understands the scheme, understands pass protection. Rodney Fields Jr. is just like lightning in a bottle sometimes."

Ability to pass block could be underrated key this year for running backs

Late last week, Collin Klein announced that preseason All-Big 12 offensive lineman John Pastore would be out for the season with a torn Achilles. The Wildcats were already entering the season with an inexperienced offensive line, and now that group is missing its leader. As the offensive line figures to go through some growing pains, Klein, Gleeson and the rest of the staff are going to have to find ways to help them out.

One area where that is likely to come from is an added emphasis on the pass-block game for the running backs. Whether it is staying in the backfield against a blitzer or delivering a chip to an edge rusher on the way out of the backfield, the Wildcats' running backs will have to be willing and able to help protect Avery Johnson.

Moments will arise throughout the season for all three to make impact plays

As Gleeson said, their skill sets all complement each other very well. Jackson showed last year that he is one of the most complete running backs in the Big 12. Harris is a big, physical running back who isn't afraid to lower his shoulder, while Fields has big-play ability as soon as he gets the ball. All three will have their numbers called in different situations, and that versatility gives the offense a chance to be dynamic.

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