Kansas State Lands Legacy Recruit from Texas for 2027 Class

Canaan Smith, an offensive lineman from Plano, Texas, commits to the Wildcats.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 9:10pm

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Kansas State has landed the third commitment of its 2027 recruiting class with the addition of Canaan Smith, a 6-foot-2 offensive lineman from Plano, Texas. Smith, who comes from a family with deep ties to the Kansas State program, held offers from several Power 5 schools including Iowa State, Baylor, and Kentucky.

Why it matters

The commitment of Canaan Smith, a legacy recruit with strong family connections to the Kansas State program, is an important early addition to the Wildcats' 2027 recruiting class as they look to build for the future.

The details

Smith, who has not yet received rankings from the major recruiting services, impressed the Kansas State coaching staff with his size, length, and physical playing style. At 6-foot-6 with a lengthy wingspan, Smith projects as an interior offensive lineman who can excel in the run game as a road-grader. The Wildcats offered Smith in January, and new offensive line coach Mike Schmidt made an in-person visit to help secure the commitment.

  • Smith received his Kansas State offer in January 2026.
  • Smith committed to the Wildcats in March 2026.

The players

Canaan Smith

A 6-foot-2 offensive lineman from Plano, Texas who comes from a family with deep ties to the Kansas State program.

Jeff Smith

Canaan Smith's father, who played at Kansas State and later served as the team chaplain for much of Bill Snyder's tenure as head coach.

Mike Schmidt

The new offensive line coach at Kansas State who made an in-person visit to help secure Canaan Smith's commitment.

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What they’re saying

“While he is a bit on the shorter side, Smith possesses quite a bit of length. He has a 6-foot-6 wingspan despite just being 6-foot-2 in height. His length will let him play multiple positions along the interior of the offensive line, though center is potentially the most likely spot.”

— Drew

What’s next

Kansas State will look to continue building momentum on the recruiting trail as they aim to assemble a strong 2027 class.

The takeaway

The addition of legacy recruit Canaan Smith, with his strong family ties to the program, is an early win for Kansas State as they work to replenish their offensive line for the future.