Gabe Ervin Jr., a former running back for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, has announced his transfer to the Kansas State Wildcats. Following a challenging tenure with injuries and limited playing time at Nebraska, Ervin Jr. is set to join a potent rushing attack in Manhattan. The move adds depth to the Wildcats' backfield and provides Ervin Jr. with a fresh start. Despite battling injuries, Ervin Jr. managed to contribute significantly during his four-year stint at Nebraska, finishing with 455 rushing yards and five touchdowns. His arrival at Kansas State comes as the team prepares for life without DJ Giddens, who led the team in rushing last season but has declared for the NFL Draft.
A Fresh Start in Manhattan
Gabe Ervin Jr. is looking forward to a new chapter in his college football career after transferring from Nebraska to Kansas State. At Nebraska, Ervin Jr. faced numerous setbacks due to injuries, which hampered his performance and kept him sidelined for much of the past three seasons. Despite these challenges, he still managed to make an impact, especially in key moments. Now, joining the Wildcats offers him a chance to prove himself on a more consistent basis. Kansas State's robust running game, which accumulated over 2,800 rushing yards last season, presents an ideal environment for Ervin Jr. to thrive.
Ervin Jr.'s decision to transfer was influenced by the opportunity to play a more prominent role in a dynamic offense. During his time at Nebraska, he totaled 455 rushing yards and five touchdowns across four seasons, with 14 carries resulting in two touchdowns in the most recent campaign. While his opportunities were limited behind other backs like Dante Dowdell, Emmett Johnson, and Rahmir Johnson, Ervin Jr. remains a valuable asset. His experience and potential will be crucial as he integrates into Kansas State's system, aiming to capitalize on the openings left by DJ Giddens' departure.
Enhancing the Wildcats' Running Game
Kansas State's backfield received a significant boost with the addition of Gabe Ervin Jr., who joins Dylan Edwards to form a formidable duo. The Wildcats have already demonstrated their prowess on the ground, racking up nearly 3,000 rushing yards in the previous season. With DJ Giddens moving on to the NFL, there is an immediate need for a capable replacement. Ervin Jr. brings both experience and versatility, qualities that can help fill this void effectively. His presence will not only add depth but also provide competition and motivation within the team.
Dylan Edwards had an impressive 2024 season, rushing for 546 yards and five touchdowns, culminating in a standout performance in the Rate Bowl where he gained 196 yards and scored twice. Ervin Jr. and Edwards are expected to complement each other well, with Ervin Jr. bringing a blend of power and agility that can diversify the Wildcats' offensive strategy. Together, they will aim to maintain and even elevate the team's strong rushing tradition, ensuring Kansas State remains a formidable force in the Big 12 conference. The synergy between these two running backs could be a defining factor in the Wildcats' success in the upcoming season.