A Top 5 player in Nebraska for 2025 according to 247Sports, Whitaker has made a pledge to join the Wildcats next season.
After considering an offer from Kansas State for a few months, linebacker Darien Whitaker Jr. decided to commit to the Wildcats’ 2025 class during an official visit this past weekend.
“#Committed,” Whitaker Jr. texted on Sunday when asked about his trip to K-State. He added, “Man, just the people in that place and the coaches. They want what’s best for me and my family!”
His mid-season commitment is significant. Although he’s still awaiting a full composite grade from various recruiting sites—247Sports is the only one that has rated him—his current score of 87 ranks him among the top five players in the class. Once fully rated, his addition could help elevate K-State into the Top 35 nationally, giving them a Top 3 recruiting class among Big 12 teams.
I think this is the place I wanna call home 1000% committed!💜#emaw #agtg #committed pic.twitter.com/cstZq6nIaf
— Darien Whitaker Jr. (@WhitakerDarien) October 29, 2024
“Kansas State has a history of finding talented players that other programs overlook,” said Allen Trieu, Midwest Recruiting Analyst for 247Sports. “Chris Klieman and his staff have been effective at identifying hidden gems, and Whitaker fits that mold. He may not have many offers, but that’s more indicative of other schools missing out.”
Though he doesn’t attend a large high school, Whitaker has been on the radar since the summer. He has a big frame, impressive athleticism, and runs well for his size. He could potentially play multiple roles, possibly even transitioning to an EDGE position as he continues to grow. His high potential makes him a valuable addition for K-State.
Whitaker’s standout performance at K-State’s final Elite Camp of the summer caught attention, leading him to decommit from Northern Iowa shortly after. Offers came in from Washington State and USF, with interest from Iowa State and Nebraska, but it was K-State’s early interest that stood out in his recruitment.
Coaches have compared him to current linebacker Asa Newsom in terms of size and skill set. As a senior, he plays significant snaps on both sides of the ball for head coach Chris Nizzi. “He’s grown so much,” Nizzi said in a recent interview. “It’s been a joy to see his development.”
In addition to football, the three-star prospect excels in multiple sports at Boys Town, averaging 13.5 points and 12.1 rebounds per game in basketball, and competing in various track events.
Whitaker’s commitment marks the 19th overall for K-State in 2025 and is the fifth linebacker pledge in the class, as lead recruiter Steve Stanard builds a strong future for the program.
