Kansas State Wildcats tight end Ben Sinnott (34)
Following in the footsteps of a highly-touted NFL draft pick is no small feat, but that’s exactly where Kansas State sophomore tight end Garrett Oakley finds himself as he heads into training camp for the 2024 season. Oakley, who has been watching and learning from one of the best, now has the opportunity to carve out his own legacy with the Wildcats.
For the past two seasons, Oakley observed Ben Sinnott’s rise to prominence. Sinnott’s exceptional performance earned him a second-round selection by the Washington Commanders in the 2024 NFL Draft. With Sinnott now playing at the professional level, Oakley faces the challenge of stepping up to provide similar production, a task that comes with its own set of pressures.
However, Oakley’s pedigree and his year of experience make him a promising candidate to fill the void. Last season, Oakley appeared in the final 10 games, including a start in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. He finished his redshirt freshman campaign with 11 receptions for 154 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his potential as a reliable target in the Wildcats’ offense. His efforts on and off the field earned him First Team Academic All-Big 12 honors, highlighting his ability to excel both athletically and academically.
Oakley’s high school career at Scotus Central Catholic in Nebraska was nothing short of impressive. He graduated as the school’s career leader in receptions (107) and receiving yards (1,640). His performance caught the eye of ESPN, which ranked him as the 21st best tight end in the country for the class of 2022. This strong foundation set the stage for his transition to college football.
Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman expressed his confidence in Oakley’s potential during spring football, stating, “The sky’s the limit for tight end Garrett Oakley.” With a year of collegiate experience under his belt and the mentorship of Sinnott, Oakley is well-positioned to make significant contributions to the Wildcats’ offense this season.
Barring any injuries, which sidelined him for the first three games last season, Oakley is expected to surpass his offensive numbers from his redshirt freshman year. His combination of talent, intelligence, and work ethic make him a key player to watch as Kansas State aims for a successful 2024 campaign. As Oakley steps into the spotlight, fans and teammates alike are eager to see him rise to the occasion and build on the foundation laid by his predecessor.
