Wildcats grab in-state junior

Xavier Kelly knew he wanted to play college football close to his Wichita (Kan.) home. He grew up a fan of Kansas State and was impressed by what he saw during an unofficial visit to Manhattan on Saturday afternoon. Early as it may be, he can't find a single reason to second-guess his decision to commit to the Wildcats.

Signing day 2016 is a long way from now. The Wichita (Kan.) East standout knows that, but his choice to end his recruitment before it ever really got rolling doesn't bother him at all. According to him, he already knows where he belongs.

"I had a lot of reasons to commit to K-State," Kelly said. "I talked to my family and coaches about it, and we all felt it was the place. It is the place for me to be. I feel that in my heart. It's close to home and I grew up rooting for K-State. It's perfect."

The 6-foot-5 Kelly plays both tight end and defensive end at East but committed to the Wildcats as a defender. He will be used at defensive end when he arrives on campus prior to the 2016 season. That stuff is to be worried about down the road, though. For now, Kelly is celebrating his decision and his college future.

"I told [assistant coach] Blake Seiler on Saturday that I wanted to accept the offer," Kelly said. "I told him at the game. He was excited. He says he can't wait to coach me and he thinks I'll be a great player for K-State."

Kelly is aware that other school will pitch him in the year to come. He doesn't expect to waiver on his verbal commitment but also doesn't expect other coaching staffs to throw in the towel on his recruitment completely. On that front, he's taking a wait-and-see approach.

"I'm not sure who is still going to recruit me now that I committed because I just did it yesterday, but I know Texas Tech was talking about an offer and maybe Iowa State, too," Kelly said. "But who knows. That may be over now."

Kelly chose Kansas State over an offer from Nebraska. He was also receiving interest as a basketball prospect but decided weeks ago that his future would be in football. A high three-star prospect, Kelly is K-State's first commitment in the 2016 class.