LAWRENCE, Kan. --&nbsp;Just days before the Kansas Jayhawks football season kickoff against Fresno State on Aug. 23, the University of Kansas announced an unprecedented gift from alumnus David G. Booth of Austin, Texas. The extraordinary gift, amounting to approximately $300 million, is the largest in Kansas Athletics and University of Kansas history, and is among the largest single gifts in the history of college athletics.&nbsp;

Booth, a graduate of both Lawrence High School and KU, is an investing legend and founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors — a global investment firm that manages $853 billion in assets as of June 30, 2025. Booth’s visionary gift includes a $75 million challenge to other donors that launches the next phase of progress on the Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. The remainder of his commitment will generate a stream of income that will strengthen Kansas Athletics across generations. 

“David’s unprecedented generosity is transformative now and for our future,” said KU Athletics Director and Vice Chancellor Travis Goff. “It accelerates phase II of the Gateway District and the new ‘Booth’ and inspires others to step up and join in completing this vision. We’re profoundly grateful for David’s leadership and extraordinary impact on generations of student-athletes and fans. There is no more generous and impactful Jayhawk, and we are so fortunate to call him a friend and mentor.”  

It’s not just the scale of the gift that is remarkable, but what it will accomplish. Booth’s commitment will propel the Gateway District’s next phase, which adds to private and civic investment for a new hotel, additional retail and restaurant spaces, student housing, improved parking and an outdoor event plaza.

The remainder of Booth’s gift will allow Kansas Athletics to be strategic, innovative and maintain a leadership position in college athletics. With the advent of revenue sharing and the continued changes in NCAA and conference dynamics, his generosity will help enable KU to take the next step in cementing itself as a national leader in college athletics.&nbsp;

“David has always believed in the power of athletics to unite communities, generate Jayhawk spirit and create lasting bonds between alumni, students and fans,” said KU Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. “His generosity is inspiring, and his loyalty to KU runs deep. We are beyond grateful for his transformative gift.”  

For Booth, giving back to KU is an investment in the university and its mission. He hopes his philanthropy will inspire others to also support the Gateway District project and what he calls “the prototype for future football stadiums” at whatever level they can. 

“One of life’s greatest privileges is being able to give back to the people and places that gave so much to you,” said Booth. “KU and Lawrence are a big part of my story, and it means a lot to support the community that invested in me. Philanthropy, like investing, pays dividends over time. Each gift compounds, creating opportunities not just for today, but for years to come. This is really about the future we’re building.”   

When he was a child, Booth’s parents, Gilbert and Betty Booth, moved the family from their home in Garnett, Kansas, to Lawrence at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/1931+Naismith+Drive?entry=gmail&amp;source=g" target="_blank">1931 Naismith Drive</a>, near Allen Fieldhouse. The family gathered regularly to listen to KU games on the radio, glued to Max Falkenstien’s iconic voice. At the age of 13, Booth attended his first game through the Boy Scouts, working as an usher in the football stadium. He later worked basketball games at Allen Fieldhouse by selling popcorn in the stands.

The Lawrence High graduate attended KU, earning both a Bachelor of Arts in Economics in 1968 and a Master of Science in Business in 1969 before earning his Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago in 1971.   

Booth founded Dimensional Fund Advisors in 1981 to apply the principles of financial science to practical investment solutions. Booth started Dimensional in collaboration with several others from the University of Chicago, including Booth’s mentor, former professor and Nobel Laureate Eugene Fama, and classmate Rex Sinquefield, who co-founded the firm. Booth and Dimensional have been recognized for helping transform the industry toward more transparent, low-cost and data-driven solutions for investors. That story was recently profiled by Academy Award winning director Errol Morris in the film “Tune Out the Noise.”   

Booth’s landmark gift is the most recent in his long legacy of support at KU, helping transform athletics and its impact for the university. Booth provided a foundational gift of $50 million in 2017 to kick off renovations at the stadium, which was named for him in 2018. In 2010, he donated James Naismith’s original rules of basketball to the university, a top attraction at the Booth Family Hall of Athletics, which he and his family provided $5 million for in 2004, followed by $4 million for subsequent improvements. His philanthropy is legendary and extends across areas, including the arts and academics. In 2008, he provided a gift valued at $300 million to the University of Chicago School of Business, where he earned his MBA. The school was named the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in his honor.  

With KU’s football season opener around the corner, Booth’s excitement to get back to the stadium is growing.   

LAWRENCE, Kan. --&nbsp;Just days before the Kansas Jayhawks football season kickoff against Fresno State on Aug. 23, the University of Kansas announced an unprecedented gift from alumnus David G. Booth of Austin, Texas. The extraordinary gift, amounting to approximately $300 million, is the largest in Kansas Athletics and University of Kansas history, and is among the largest single gifts in the history of college athletics.&nbsp;Booth, a graduate of both Lawrence High School and KU, is an investing legend and founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors — a global investment firm that manages $853 billion in assets as of June 30, 2025. Booth’s visionary gift includes a $75 million challenge to other donors that launches the next phase of progress on the Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. The remainder of his commitment will generate a stream of income that will strengthen Kansas Athletics across generations. “David’s unprecedented generosity is transformative now and for our future,” said KU Athletics Director and Vice Chancellor Travis Goff. “It accelerates phase II of the Gateway District and the new ‘Booth’ and inspires others to step up and join in completing this vision. We’re profoundly grateful for David’s leadership and extraordinary impact on generations of student-athletes and fans. There is no more generous and impactful Jayhawk, and we are so fortunate to call him a friend and mentor.”  It’s not just the scale of the gift that is remarkable, but what it will accomplish. Booth’s commitment will propel the Gateway District’s next phase, which adds to private and civic investment for a new hotel, additional retail and restaurant spaces, student housing, improved parking and an outdoor event plaza.The remainder of Booth’s gift will allow Kansas Athletics to be strategic, innovative and maintain a leadership position in college athletics. With the advent of revenue sharing and the continued changes in NCAA and conference dynamics, his generosity will help enable KU to take the next step in cementing itself as a national leader in college athletics.&nbsp;“David has always believed in the power of athletics to unite communities, generate Jayhawk spirit and create lasting bonds between alumni, students and fans,” said KU Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. “His generosity is inspiring, and his loyalty to KU runs deep. We are beyond grateful for his transformative gift.”  For Booth, giving back to KU is an investment in the university and its mission. He hopes his philanthropy will inspire others to also support the Gateway District project and what he calls “the prototype for future football stadiums” at whatever level they can. “One of life’s greatest privileges is being able to give back to the people and places that gave so much to you,” said Booth. “KU and Lawrence are a big part of my story, and it means a lot to support the community that invested in me. Philanthropy, like investing, pays dividends over time. Each gift compounds, creating opportunities not just for today, but for years to come. This is really about the future we’re building.”   When he was a child, Booth’s parents, Gilbert and Betty Booth, moved the family from their home in Garnett, Kansas, to Lawrence at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/1931+Naismith+Drive?entry=gmail&amp;source=g" target="_blank">1931 Naismith Drive</a>, near Allen Fieldhouse. The family gathered regularly to listen to KU games on the radio, glued to Max Falkenstien’s iconic voice. At the age of 13, Booth attended his first game through the Boy Scouts, working as an usher in the football stadium. He later worked basketball games at Allen Fieldhouse by selling popcorn in the stands.    The Lawrence High graduate attended KU, earning both a Bachelor of Arts in Economics in 1968 and a Master of Science in Business in 1969 before earning his Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago in 1971.   Booth founded Dimensional Fund Advisors in 1981 to apply the principles of financial science to practical investment solutions. Booth started Dimensional in collaboration with several others from the University of Chicago, including Booth’s mentor, former professor and Nobel Laureate Eugene Fama, and classmate Rex Sinquefield, who co-founded the firm. Booth and Dimensional have been recognized for helping transform the industry toward more transparent, low-cost and data-driven solutions for investors. That story was recently profiled by Academy Award winning director Errol Morris in the film “Tune Out the Noise.”   Booth’s landmark gift is the most recent in his long legacy of support at KU, helping transform athletics and its impact for the university. Booth provided a foundational gift of $50 million in 2017 to kick off renovations at the stadium, which was named for him in 2018. In 2010, he donated James Naismith’s original rules of basketball to the university, a top attraction at the Booth Family Hall of Athletics, which he and his family provided $5 million for in 2004, followed by $4 million for subsequent improvements. His philanthropy is legendary and extends across areas, including the arts and academics. In 2008, he provided a gift valued at $300 million to the University of Chicago School of Business, where he earned his MBA. The school was named the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in his honor.  With KU’s football season opener around the corner, Booth’s excitement to get back to the stadium is growing.

KU Athletics Receives Historic $300 Million Gift from Longtime Donor and Alumnus David Booth 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino doubled, homered and drove in five runs as the Kansas City Royals topped the Washington Nationals 8-5 to reach the .500 mark for the second time since mid-June.

After a two-out, third-inning walk by Maikel Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr.’s infield hit, Pasquantino hit Mitchell Parker’s first-pitch fastball into the second row of the right field stands, a few feet inside the foul pole, expanding Kansas City’s lead to 4-0.

Pasquantino opened the scoring with a first-inning sacrifice fly and capped the Royals scoring with an RBI double in the seventh.

Jonathan India’s two-run homer extended Kansas City’s lead to 7-2 in the sixth.

Michael Wacha (7-9) allowed two runs on five hits and two walks with three strikeouts in 5 2/3 innings, his sixth consecutive start permitting fewer than three runs.

Lucas Erceg earned his second save with a hitless ninth.

In 5 1/3 innings, Parker (7-13) allowed five runs on two hits with three walks and three strikeouts. Over his last three starts — all losses — Parker has allowed 17 runs in 14 1/3 innings.

Leaping at the center field wall,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/randal-grichuk-flies-out-sharply-to-center-fielder-robert-hassell-iii?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">Robert Hassell III robbed Randal Grichuk</a>&nbsp;of a solo home run in the fifth.

In the sixth, CJ Abrams scored when Witt&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/michael-wacha-in-play-out-s-to-paul-dejong-wavtmn?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">misplayed Paul DeJong’s deep pop fly</a>, cutting the Royals lead to 4-2.

Abrams and James Wood collected two-out RBIs in the seventh. Wood recorded his fourth straight multihit game.

On Witt’s soft ground out between the plate and mound, Garcia hustled from first to third before scoring on Pasquantino’s sacrifice fly as Kansas City took a 1-0 lead in a hitless first inning.

Pasquantino leads the Royals 32 two-out RBIs and ranks second in the majors with 23 go-ahead RBIs.

Nationals RHP Jake Irvin (8-7, 4.90 ERA) opposes Royals RHP Seth Lugo (8-6, 3.46)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755053829399.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino doubled, homered and drove in five runs as the Kansas City Royals topped the Washington Nationals 8-5 to reach the .500 mark for the second time since mid-June.After a two-out, third-inning walk by Maikel Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr.’s infield hit, Pasquantino hit Mitchell Parker’s first-pitch fastball into the second row of the right field stands, a few feet inside the foul pole, expanding Kansas City’s lead to 4-0.Pasquantino opened the scoring with a first-inning sacrifice fly and capped the Royals scoring with an RBI double in the seventh.Jonathan India’s two-run homer extended Kansas City’s lead to 7-2 in the sixth.Michael Wacha (7-9) allowed two runs on five hits and two walks with three strikeouts in 5 2/3 innings, his sixth consecutive start permitting fewer than three runs.Lucas Erceg earned his second save with a hitless ninth.In 5 1/3 innings, Parker (7-13) allowed five runs on two hits with three walks and three strikeouts. Over his last three starts — all losses — Parker has allowed 17 runs in 14 1/3 innings.Leaping at the center field wall,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/randal-grichuk-flies-out-sharply-to-center-fielder-robert-hassell-iii?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">Robert Hassell III robbed Randal Grichuk</a>&nbsp;of a solo home run in the fifth.In the sixth, CJ Abrams scored when Witt&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/michael-wacha-in-play-out-s-to-paul-dejong-wavtmn?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">misplayed Paul DeJong’s deep pop fly</a>, cutting the Royals lead to 4-2.Abrams and James Wood collected two-out RBIs in the seventh. Wood recorded his fourth straight multihit game.<h2>Key moment</h2>On Witt’s soft ground out between the plate and mound, Garcia hustled from first to third before scoring on Pasquantino’s sacrifice fly as Kansas City took a 1-0 lead in a hitless first inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>Pasquantino leads the Royals 32 two-out RBIs and ranks second in the majors with 23 go-ahead RBIs.<h2>Up next</h2>Nationals RHP Jake Irvin (8-7, 4.90 ERA) opposes Royals RHP Seth Lugo (8-6, 3.46)

⚾ Pasquantino drives in 5 to lead the Royals past the Nationals 

This Chiefs Training Camp report is presented by Kansas Wesleyan University and Credit Union of America.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_TpHI1sVWFk"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This Chiefs Training Camp report is presented by Kansas Wesleyan University and Credit Union of America.

Chiefs Training Camp Report: 8-12-25

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Matt Wells&nbsp;and defensive coordinator&nbsp;Joe Klanderman&nbsp;met with members of the media on Tuesday at the Vanier Family Football Complex to discuss the team’s progress during preseason camp and preview the season opener next Saturday against Iowa State. Links to video and audio of both press conferences are above, and a transcript of select quotes are below.

On the biggest challenge getting players ready for Ireland…

“I don't know about that. We’re just trying to get them ready for the season. It's more than just one game. It's trying to prepare these guys for the long haul. You're installing schemes. You're getting in shape. You're learning how to work through tough times. Lots of install, and then a game plan certainly is that. But, we'll get over there and we'll get acclimated and play the game. It won't matter where this game is going to be played – our guys will be ready to play.”

On how he feels about the offense after 16 practices…

“I think we all probably look at it with a real critical eye at times. But, when you look back, I see some areas I think we’re probably better than last year. Then, I think there's some areas that we all need game day to tell us some answers. These guys are really, really working hard. They're grinding. They're staying together. I hope it is a tough-minded group. We will go through some adversity. We know that. Whether it's an injury or it's something that didn't go right, or somebody comes out in a front that we didn't prepare for. How do you handle that? We've tried to put them through some of those situations. We do have some guys that have played ball. I rest easier in knowing that you've got a quarterback that's played, whatever, 14 games and started. There's some starts on that o-line. There's a few of them that have played in other places that are here. The tight end room is really experienced. Jayce (Brown) has played in a lot of games. (Jaron Tibbs) and JB (Jerand Bradley) have played in a lot of games – not in a Wildcat uniform, but in a lot of games. Dylan (Edwards) has played in games, and Joe (Jackson). So, I think I take that as a positive because I know how I think they're going to be. But also, we've got some of those guys I just mentioned that's a little bit new and improved. It’s a newer version of them, and I'm excited to go out and watch them all together.”

On how Avery Johnson is different from last season…

“I think he's probably more comfortable in his own skin, in his own ability. ‘I don't have to be this certain type of player. I don't need to listen to the media or somebody ask me about being a certain prototypical ‘blank’ kind of quarterback. I'm good when I run. I'm good when I throw it.’ I think he is further along in coverage recognition. I think he is further along in his ability to dissect what a defense is doing to him a little quicker. That takes time. It takes live reps, and that takes a lot of looks. Certainly with all the safeties that Joe (Klanderman) plays in the back end, that can be a challenge for us and in training camp. But, it's a good look knowing who our first opponent is.”

On the depth behind Avery Johnson at quarterback…

“You’ve got a battle for whoever that second quarterback is. That's something I see as ongoing. I’m not close to naming a guy. I don't know if Coach (Klieman) will. I don't know where that is. That’s not an alarm, that's guys at different stages of their careers in that room right now. They're all working hard. There are abilities there. I'm straining them as best I can in a practice setting. It's not easy, but being a backup quarterback is not easy. We may not play a backup quarterback here for two years, and it may be, I tell them, it may be two days. Who knows? Avery may get a hangnail. I don't know. So, there's uncertainty, and I try to create some of those situations in practice to make them react to that uncertainty because that's what it will be like if and when a guy has to go in there and do that. So, you want me to say something about who the guy is, but we don't know yet. They don't know, and that may be something that's ongoing for quite a while. In fact, last year, it was through the season. But, those guys are battling.”

On the growth of Dylan Edwards from last season…

“He's – like all our young men – going into his third year in college, a little bit more mature, a little bit more seasoned, a little bit more aware of the grind of practice schedule in training camp with the season coming up. I see a guy that's really dynamic, runs the ball better than you think in between the tackles. He has proven to be durable so far, and I hope that continues, but he's dynamic with the ball in his hands.”

JOE KLANDERMAN, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR

On how he feels at this point in preseason camp…

“I feel like time is flying by. You look at this Ireland trip, and you knew the schedule was going to be a little bit different. Spring went by in a blur. Summer went by in a blur. As a football coach, June doesn’t even exist to you anymore. I think I was on vacation for about four days and was in the office the rest of the time. Now the game is afoot. So, it's flown by really quick, but I feel good about where our guys are at.”

On if there is a defensive position group that has taken a step forward during camp…

“Great question. I'll just say it to you this way – I feel pretty good about our starters. The thing was who are those next guys that are going to play significant snaps? We did a little situational walk throughout there today. Coach (Klieman) called out the second defense, and they got together in a little group. I looked at that group of guys and I'm like, ‘There's some pretty dang good football players here.’ They're good looking kids. They're kids that know what they're doing. They're kids that I would trust to be out there. So, I don't know. I think a lot of groups have made a great leap. Probably the group that has impressed me the most with the progress they've made since the spring is the corners. Just watching Zashon Rich and Donovan McIntosh, Justice Clemens, Jayden Rowe, playing with confidence, it's fun to watch those guys right now. That was probably the biggest question mark (after) losing the two seniors from a year ago. Obviously, both of them were very good players, and I don't think we're going to drop off there at all.”

On playing a big, physical cornerback in Jayden Rowe…

“Jayden’s a different animal now. He's about 227 pounds. He ran a 10.3 in high school. He's physical, and he uses it. You’d think change of direction or something like that would be an issue for him, but it’s not. So, he's a different animal. He came from a system at Oklahoma where they did so much. I don't know if he did any technique really well. We do less with our guys, but we try to do it with great technique. So, we're trying to get him dialed in on just that. I don't think it's a stress for him mentally, but just, ‘Hey, I'm a divider, I'm a man player. This is how we do it.’ That's what we're trying to work on with him.”

On this defense compared to last in terms of running to the football…

“These guys care. They're about it, and they hold each other accountable to that, which is the coolest thing. It's not me pushing the buttons. There are some guys that we have that are going to be big parts of this that are transfers. Qua Moss is going to be a big part of this. Gunner Maldonado is going to be a big part of this. Gabe Powers is going to be a big part of this – guys that were in different programs a year ago. They're taking pride in it. I hear them using our language. There's football terminology, sure, but there's also the language of how we run to the football, how we play, how we execute, how we do those things. To see it permeating through those guys is fun.”

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State offensive coordinator&nbsp;Matt Wells&nbsp;and defensive coordinator&nbsp;Joe Klanderman&nbsp;met with members of the media on Tuesday at the Vanier Family Football Complex to discuss the team’s progress during preseason camp and preview the season opener next Saturday against Iowa State. Links to video and audio of both press conferences are above, and a transcript of select quotes are below.MATT WELLS, OFFENSIVE COORDINATOROn the biggest challenge getting players ready for Ireland…“I don't know about that. We’re just trying to get them ready for the season. It's more than just one game. It's trying to prepare these guys for the long haul. You're installing schemes. You're getting in shape. You're learning how to work through tough times. Lots of install, and then a game plan certainly is that. But, we'll get over there and we'll get acclimated and play the game. It won't matter where this game is going to be played – our guys will be ready to play.”On how he feels about the offense after 16 practices…“I think we all probably look at it with a real critical eye at times. But, when you look back, I see some areas I think we’re probably better than last year. Then, I think there's some areas that we all need game day to tell us some answers. These guys are really, really working hard. They're grinding. They're staying together. I hope it is a tough-minded group. We will go through some adversity. We know that. Whether it's an injury or it's something that didn't go right, or somebody comes out in a front that we didn't prepare for. How do you handle that? We've tried to put them through some of those situations. We do have some guys that have played ball. I rest easier in knowing that you've got a quarterback that's played, whatever, 14 games and started. There's some starts on that o-line. There's a few of them that have played in other places that are here. The tight end room is really experienced. Jayce (Brown) has played in a lot of games. (Jaron Tibbs) and JB (Jerand Bradley) have played in a lot of games – not in a Wildcat uniform, but in a lot of games. Dylan (Edwards) has played in games, and Joe (Jackson). So, I think I take that as a positive because I know how I think they're going to be. But also, we've got some of those guys I just mentioned that's a little bit new and improved. It’s a newer version of them, and I'm excited to go out and watch them all together.”On how Avery Johnson is different from last season…“I think he's probably more comfortable in his own skin, in his own ability. ‘I don't have to be this certain type of player. I don't need to listen to the media or somebody ask me about being a certain prototypical ‘blank’ kind of quarterback. I'm good when I run. I'm good when I throw it.’ I think he is further along in coverage recognition. I think he is further along in his ability to dissect what a defense is doing to him a little quicker. That takes time. It takes live reps, and that takes a lot of looks. Certainly with all the safeties that Joe (Klanderman) plays in the back end, that can be a challenge for us and in training camp. But, it's a good look knowing who our first opponent is.”On the depth behind Avery Johnson at quarterback…“You’ve got a battle for whoever that second quarterback is. That's something I see as ongoing. I’m not close to naming a guy. I don't know if Coach (Klieman) will. I don't know where that is. That’s not an alarm, that's guys at different stages of their careers in that room right now. They're all working hard. There are abilities there. I'm straining them as best I can in a practice setting. It's not easy, but being a backup quarterback is not easy. We may not play a backup quarterback here for two years, and it may be, I tell them, it may be two days. Who knows? Avery may get a hangnail. I don't know. So, there's uncertainty, and I try to create some of those situations in practice to make them react to that uncertainty because that's what it will be like if and when a guy has to go in there and do that. So, you want me to say something about who the guy is, but we don't know yet. They don't know, and that may be something that's ongoing for quite a while. In fact, last year, it was through the season. But, those guys are battling.”On the growth of Dylan Edwards from last season…“He's – like all our young men – going into his third year in college, a little bit more mature, a little bit more seasoned, a little bit more aware of the grind of practice schedule in training camp with the season coming up. I see a guy that's really dynamic, runs the ball better than you think in between the tackles. He has proven to be durable so far, and I hope that continues, but he's dynamic with the ball in his hands.”JOE KLANDERMAN, DEFENSIVE COORDINATOROn how he feels at this point in preseason camp…“I feel like time is flying by. You look at this Ireland trip, and you knew the schedule was going to be a little bit different. Spring went by in a blur. Summer went by in a blur. As a football coach, June doesn’t even exist to you anymore. I think I was on vacation for about four days and was in the office the rest of the time. Now the game is afoot. So, it's flown by really quick, but I feel good about where our guys are at.”On if there is a defensive position group that has taken a step forward during camp…“Great question. I'll just say it to you this way – I feel pretty good about our starters. The thing was who are those next guys that are going to play significant snaps? We did a little situational walk throughout there today. Coach (Klieman) called out the second defense, and they got together in a little group. I looked at that group of guys and I'm like, ‘There's some pretty dang good football players here.’ They're good looking kids. They're kids that know what they're doing. They're kids that I would trust to be out there. So, I don't know. I think a lot of groups have made a great leap. Probably the group that has impressed me the most with the progress they've made since the spring is the corners. Just watching Zashon Rich and Donovan McIntosh, Justice Clemens, Jayden Rowe, playing with confidence, it's fun to watch those guys right now. That was probably the biggest question mark (after) losing the two seniors from a year ago. Obviously, both of them were very good players, and I don't think we're going to drop off there at all.”On playing a big, physical cornerback in Jayden Rowe…“Jayden’s a different animal now. He's about 227 pounds. He ran a 10.3 in high school. He's physical, and he uses it. You’d think change of direction or something like that would be an issue for him, but it’s not. So, he's a different animal. He came from a system at Oklahoma where they did so much. I don't know if he did any technique really well. We do less with our guys, but we try to do it with great technique. So, we're trying to get him dialed in on just that. I don't think it's a stress for him mentally, but just, ‘Hey, I'm a divider, I'm a man player. This is how we do it.’ That's what we're trying to work on with him.”On this defense compared to last in terms of running to the football…“These guys care. They're about it, and they hold each other accountable to that, which is the coolest thing. It's not me pushing the buttons. There are some guys that we have that are going to be big parts of this that are transfers. Qua Moss is going to be a big part of this. Gunner Maldonado is going to be a big part of this. Gabe Powers is going to be a big part of this – guys that were in different programs a year ago. They're taking pride in it. I hear them using our language. There's football terminology, sure, but there's also the language of how we run to the football, how we play, how we execute, how we do those things. To see it permeating through those guys is fun.”On the depth at safety…

K-State Coordinators Discuss Preseason Camp, Preview Season Opener

ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR DAVE TOUB

Q: What did you see the other night as far as special teams?

TOUB:&nbsp;“I thought we played – had a good game. It was solid, (we) secured the football, that’s always hard to do. So, it hurt them a little bit. But also, on the other hand, I liked the fact that we did knock the ball out. So, you look at it that way, too. The guys flew around pretty good. Kicking was exceptional, (Harrison) Butker was really trying to work the edges with the kickoffs – a little too close really, that thing could have easily bounced out. You want to try to push the limits right now during the preseason. You want to see how far you can go with it. He’s worked so hard at it, and it’s good to see him have some success there. Then Matt (Araiza) punted well, he had some really good punts. He had the one touchback where I thought we could’ve done a better job with the hang time on that instead of the distance, but he’s moving the ball well (and) he’s gotten better from last year. I’m excited about where we are right now.”

Q: With the new kickoff rule, is there something you can learn from in-game experience that you can’t learn in practice?

TOUB:&nbsp;“Not really. Our guys are doing different stuff now because you’re allowed to take the middle guy and have him off the line. You can have three guys off the line now, which is, I think it’s an advantage for the kickoff return team. It helped us a little bit, I thought in the game, I think teams are going to use it to their advantage like we did. Other than that, obviously, teams are going to be kicking it into the target zone, that’s going to happen. There’s going to be a lot more returns, a lot more coverages and it’s all good for special teams.”

Q: On Josh Simmons progression through the first preseason game, practices, meeting rooms and OTAs?

HECK:&nbsp;“It’s a big job for anybody coming in to learn the details of the offense, assignments (and) techniques. Every play has a thousand little details and so picking those things up, that was job one in the spring where he (Josh Simmons) was doing less physical work with us. Since he has gotten to training camp, he’s been able to every day add one or two of these details that are important to each play. So, I’ve seen him steadily improve, and his understanding - and we’re able to have better conversations about what’s going on and I think that’s what we’ll see his trajectory do is just go like this (points up).”

Q: How strong is the competition for the eighth, ninth and tenth spot on the roster?

HECK:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think this is one of the best years we’ve had in terms of bringing in talent and creating competition across the board. That’s just going to make the group better so, when you talk about the eighth, ninth, and tenth spot, there’s a lot of competition going on and there’s still a lot more to be done there in terms of evaluation. Those preseason games are going to be huge. So, who is operating and grading up, basically getting their guy blocked the most consistently? Who do we trust to put in there on a Sunday or Monday night?

Q: Where does Josh Simmons fit among the players you’ve coached based on your experience?

HECK:&nbsp;“I’d hesitate to compare guys; every guy is different. I’m still in a learning process myself, of what makes him (Josh Simmons) tick, how does he learn best (and) how can I help him get better? There’s constant communication there. But I would say he’s certainly as talented a player as I’ve ever been around. He loves the game. So, those are two good things, when you’re talented and you love the game, and you want to be the best, you got a great chance to be a good one.”

Q: On the similarities between Ashton Gillotte and George Karlaftis.&nbsp;&nbsp;

CULLEN:&nbsp;“(They are) very similar. They were coached by the same coach. (Louisville Defensive Line) Coach (Mark) Hagen did a great job with George (Karlaftis) at Purdue, and now he’s at Louisville. But very similar. Both (Ashton Gillotte and George Karlaftis) have great motors, both love football, so (they are) really, really similar.”

Q: On getting more sacks this season.

CULLEN:&nbsp;“Absolutely. When you look at the two years we won the Super Bowl – and Spags (Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) is as creative as it comes, in terms of getting to the quarterback. We have guys that can get to the quarterback, and we had like 57 or 60 (sacks), two years in a row. And then we dipped a little bit last year, but we picked it up at the end of the year and into the playoffs. So, the thing we (have) got to do a better job of is making sure in certain situations he (the quarterback) doesn’t get out of the pocket. We had opportunities to get him&nbsp;<a>(</a>the quarterback) down and didn’t finish, and that’s been our emphasis this year.”

Q: How have you seen Chris Jones embrace his leadership role on the defensive line?

CULLEN:&nbsp;“Chris (Jones) is having a phenomenal camp. He hasn’t missed a rep, and this is our fourth year together. He had a similar camp in ‘22. Obviously, he wasn’t here in ’23, (and) he was injured a little bit last year. He hasn’t missed a rep. Long-drive drill, nine-on-seven, one-on-one pass rush, (he’s been) phenomenal. He’s in great physical shape, and he’s on a mission.”

DEFENSIVE BACKS COACH DAVE MERRITT

Q: What do you like about Nohl Williams?

MERRITT:&nbsp;“He (Nohl Williams) competes. He showed some physicality in the game in Arizona. So, those are things that we were looking for, and I just love the fact that the kid, he takes coaching. A lot of guys, sometimes they come in and you don’t know what you’re getting. It’s like a box of chocolates, you have no clue on what you’re going to get. But he takes coaching, so we love that about him.”

MERRITT&nbsp;“Chris (Roland-Wallace) has done a wonderful job for us. I mean, we have him at multiple positions. He did that his rookie year where we played him at safety, (we) played him at nickel, (we) moved him from outside and just really played him closer towards the box. And so (the) young man is very cerebral, and so he’s able to pick up the defenses and then he can do a lot of things for us. Whether it’s strong, free safety, as well as play a little dime or nickel. So having that, kind of, Swiss Army Knife is going to help us out.”

Q: What are the challenges of bringing in Kristian Fulton at this time?

MERRITT:&nbsp;“I think the challenge for Kristian (Fulton) is just to get his cardio. Because you can go and you can work with your offseason coach, you can go and work with your trainers, but when you come out here and you’re working with a professional coach, as well as going against a professional offense – your cardio is the first thing that you’re going to see. And so I think the good thing about him (Kristian Fulton) is today, I think he wanted to tap out, and then all of a sudden (I) just told him, ‘just keep going.’ Because he needs that, just play after play after play. So, if he can continue to expand and open his lungs, that’s going to help us all out.”

WIDE RECEIVERS COACH CONNOR EMBREE

Q: On Xavier Worthy’s improvement in route running.

EMBREE:&nbsp;“After this season, me and him had a good talk (on) what he needs to get better at and I think he did a good job in the offseason, especially the summer of working on the stuff we were talking about. I think it shows on the field. He’s not just a straight-line go route guy. He can run multiple routes, so I really like what he did. (He) came back in great shape and then like you said he’s gotten better at route running.”

Q: On dealing with so many injuries in the wide receiver room last season.

EMBREE:&nbsp;“It was difficult, but I think that’s what makes us such a great team. It’s that next man up. All the second, third string guys, they know they’re one play away from being a starter. So that’s credit to them too, being in their book, knowing what to do, and when they got their opportunity, they made the most of it.”

Q: On the speed of the wide receivers.

EMBREE:&nbsp;“Yeah, it’s fast. It’s like a track team out there. 4x1 team. It’s next man up. They all can run. That’s kind of what our offense is based off of is just speed, speed, speed, speed. And then just like you said, we got a lot of guys that can run. So, I like the depth of our room and the speed of it.”

PASS GAME COORDINATOR JOE BLEYMAIER

Q: How are you able to use Xavier Worthy now that he’s in year two, in ways you couldn’t in year one?

BLEYMAIER:&nbsp;“Yeah, he (Xavier Worthy) has a familiarity with the offense and scheme to where he can do more things. He can put more, in terms of where he aligns, and the routes and the concepts on his plate. He too, utilizing him more, he too, is in that identity phase in that formation of himself as a player. And so, one of the things that he does, I think, that’s a credit to him, is that he’s really emphasizing and focusing on the things that he does well. Continuing to do those (things) well, rather than just take it for granted (and) focus on the next thing he would like to build-on. He singles out Trent (McDuffie) in one-on-ones, and often times he’s going to run the same routes over and over against Trent. So really sharpening his fast ball, his main pitch, and then from there, being able to say all right, here’s how I can complement that. And here’s the other moves and the routes that can work off that. So, he’s like a microcosm of the offense, in general. In year two, he’s trying to establish that identity of here’s what I can do against anybody in the league. And then if they start taking it away, here’s how I can complement that.”

Q: What have you seen from Travis Kelce this year? How has he evolved over the years?

BLEYMAIER:&nbsp;“I think, I mean today was a great example. One of the hotter, last days of training camp, in full pads. We started off slow on offense. Travis gets a route one-on-one, and we haven’t seen many completions out there today, and Trav beats his man one-on-one, breaks out for a 20-yard gain, and kind of sets the tone for everybody that ‘Hey, you get man to man coverage, we’re winning these routes. Let’s go.’ So, that, just the veteran that he is, the amount of years out here, and then when everybody was pushing through the dog days of camp, it was him who made the play one-on-one against the defense. That kind of just goes to that bigger picture where maybe you don’t recognize the years as much, because it’s just the same old Trav. That’s what he’s always been doing. But for him to be able to dig deep, and do that, I mean, that was just like a fountain of youth moment today in full pads out here.”

Q: What has stuck out to you the most about Patrick Mahomes this year?

BLEYMAIER:&nbsp;“His ability to communicate with the veteran guys who have been here, and then also the younger guys, Jalen (Royals), who’s learning our offense, some of the newer tight ends, exactly what he wants, through their eyes. So, he can speak to Rashee (Rice) and Xavier (Worthy), Hollywood (Brown), Trav(is) (Kelce), a certain way. They have a communication that sometimes is unspoken, but then with Jalen and some of our newer tight ends and newer pass catchers, he’s been able to communicate exactly what he wants through their eyes. Which is, you can see him almost taking a breath and saying ‘Hey, I know exactly what you were thinking,’ or ‘here’s what I think you thought, and here’s how I saw it,’ and it’s just clicking. I think that’s a maturity and an experience thing from Patrick to be able to recognize the game through their eyes, and see it through their experience, and then meet them where they are. It’s been incredible to watch.”

Chiefs Assistant General Managers Quotes

ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER MIKE BRADWAY

Q: What is the process for choosing guys in the wide receiver room? What does that conversation look like?

BRADWAY:&nbsp;“I think typically, I mean, I think, you know, the way I see it, I think in the past you kind of wanted to build it like almost like a basketball team a little bit, you know? Different, you know, different skill sets, different types of players. I think we have a lot of talented players in the room. There’s a lot of really good competition. But yeah, I think you can balance speed, physicality, run after catch, you know, special teams, aspect. So, you want to have a lot of diversity in the room in terms of skill sets. But the special team’s aspect is huge. Especially for those depth guys.”

Q: The offensive and defensive lines are always emphasized in the off-season as being a priority. This off-season did it seem like the offensive line had to be the top of list in conversation?

BRADWAY:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think so. And listen, it wasn’t because of, you know, the Super Bowl. I think it was, I think that’s just kind of how we want to build the roster. And we want to infuse it with youth and talent. And fortunately, through free agency and the draft, we were able to do that. And feel good (that) it’s a good blend of youth experience, (and) I think guys with versatility. So really, really, encouraged by what we’ve seen so far.”

Q: On being 31 on the waiver wire and how some rivals are high on the waiver wire.

BRADWAY:&nbsp;“And that’s just the reality of it. It’s a good problem to have. You’ve hit on it pretty well; you’re far down on the claim. But yeah, right now, we’re talking to every team in the league. I mean, you know, myself, all our contacts, we’re just gathering information now. So, whether that would mean potentially trading for a guy, doing a play for a player swap, maybe trying to, maybe there could be a guy that you think would be available to claim. We’re going to be active. I mean, we’re going to watch as many tapes as possible. We’re going to, you know, and maybe it just doesn’t work out, but we’re going to identify certain players that we think could help us now (and) down the road and see where it goes.”

ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER CHRIS SHEA

Q: How important was it to get Trey Smith and George Karlaftis signed long-term?

SHEA:&nbsp;“We were very excited to be able to get both of those contracts done and you know, zooming out to the big picture, one of the core operating principles we have that (General Manager Brett) Veech has adopted as the general manager here and goes all the way up to ownership is that we want to draft well and retain our own players to the maximum extent possible that’s feasible within our constraints and we were very happy to get both of those guys done as important starters on both offense and defense.”

Q: On how the changing of salary cap affects their decisions for two to three years in the future.

SHEA:&nbsp;“It is an educated guesstimate, based on a lot of factors but you know generally I think teams tend to be a little bit conservative with protecting the cap, so they make sure they don’t get themselves into any dangerous waters. If the cap comes in a little bit higher than we think, then that’s a pleasant problem to have. It’s sort of found money, for lack of a better term but we work through historical trends and how we see things moving in the future to try and give us a conservative and fair number to work with.”

Q: On the second-round picks across the league not signing initially and if the Chiefs knew that was coming or if it was a curveball.

Chiefs Coaches QuotesAugust 12, 2025ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR DAVE TOUBQ: What did you see the other night as far as special teams?TOUB:&nbsp;“I thought we played – had a good game. It was solid, (we) secured the football, that’s always hard to do. So, it hurt them a little bit. But also, on the other hand, I liked the fact that we did knock the ball out. So, you look at it that way, too. The guys flew around pretty good. Kicking was exceptional, (Harrison) Butker was really trying to work the edges with the kickoffs – a little too close really, that thing could have easily bounced out. You want to try to push the limits right now during the preseason. You want to see how far you can go with it. He’s worked so hard at it, and it’s good to see him have some success there. Then Matt (Araiza) punted well, he had some really good punts. He had the one touchback where I thought we could’ve done a better job with the hang time on that instead of the distance, but he’s moving the ball well (and) he’s gotten better from last year. I’m excited about where we are right now.”Q: With the new kickoff rule, is there something you can learn from in-game experience that you can’t learn in practice?TOUB:&nbsp;“Not really. Our guys are doing different stuff now because you’re allowed to take the middle guy and have him off the line. You can have three guys off the line now, which is, I think it’s an advantage for the kickoff return team. It helped us a little bit, I thought in the game, I think teams are going to use it to their advantage like we did. Other than that, obviously, teams are going to be kicking it into the target zone, that’s going to happen. There’s going to be a lot more returns, a lot more coverages and it’s all good for special teams.”OFFENSIVE LINE COACH ANDY HECKQ: On Josh Simmons progression through the first preseason game, practices, meeting rooms and OTAs?HECK:&nbsp;“It’s a big job for anybody coming in to learn the details of the offense, assignments (and) techniques. Every play has a thousand little details and so picking those things up, that was job one in the spring where he (Josh Simmons) was doing less physical work with us. Since he has gotten to training camp, he’s been able to every day add one or two of these details that are important to each play. So, I’ve seen him steadily improve, and his understanding - and we’re able to have better conversations about what’s going on and I think that’s what we’ll see his trajectory do is just go like this (points up).”Q: How strong is the competition for the eighth, ninth and tenth spot on the roster?HECK:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think this is one of the best years we’ve had in terms of bringing in talent and creating competition across the board. That’s just going to make the group better so, when you talk about the eighth, ninth, and tenth spot, there’s a lot of competition going on and there’s still a lot more to be done there in terms of evaluation. Those preseason games are going to be huge. So, who is operating and grading up, basically getting their guy blocked the most consistently? Who do we trust to put in there on a Sunday or Monday night?Q: Where does Josh Simmons fit among the players you’ve coached based on your experience?HECK:&nbsp;“I’d hesitate to compare guys; every guy is different. I’m still in a learning process myself, of what makes him (Josh Simmons) tick, how does he learn best (and) how can I help him get better? There’s constant communication there. But I would say he’s certainly as talented a player as I’ve ever been around. He loves the game. So, those are two good things, when you’re talented and you love the game, and you want to be the best, you got a great chance to be a good one.”DEFENSIVE LINE COACH JOE CULLENQ: On the similarities between Ashton Gillotte and George Karlaftis.&nbsp;&nbsp;CULLEN:&nbsp;“(They are) very similar. They were coached by the same coach. (Louisville Defensive Line) Coach (Mark) Hagen did a great job with George (Karlaftis) at Purdue, and now he’s at Louisville. But very similar. Both (Ashton Gillotte and George Karlaftis) have great motors, both love football, so (they are) really, really similar.”Q: On getting more sacks this season.CULLEN:&nbsp;“Absolutely. When you look at the two years we won the Super Bowl – and Spags (Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) is as creative as it comes, in terms of getting to the quarterback. We have guys that can get to the quarterback, and we had like 57 or 60 (sacks), two years in a row. And then we dipped a little bit last year, but we picked it up at the end of the year and into the playoffs. So, the thing we (have) got to do a better job of is making sure in certain situations he (the quarterback) doesn’t get out of the pocket. We had opportunities to get him&nbsp;<a>(</a>the quarterback) down and didn’t finish, and that’s been our emphasis this year.”Q: How have you seen Chris Jones embrace his leadership role on the defensive line?CULLEN:&nbsp;“Chris (Jones) is having a phenomenal camp. He hasn’t missed a rep, and this is our fourth year together. He had a similar camp in ‘22. Obviously, he wasn’t here in ’23, (and) he was injured a little bit last year. He hasn’t missed a rep. Long-drive drill, nine-on-seven, one-on-one pass rush, (he’s been) phenomenal. He’s in great physical shape, and he’s on a mission.”DEFENSIVE BACKS COACH DAVE MERRITTQ: What do you like about Nohl Williams?MERRITT:&nbsp;“He (Nohl Williams) competes. He showed some physicality in the game in Arizona. So, those are things that we were looking for, and I just love the fact that the kid, he takes coaching. A lot of guys, sometimes they come in and you don’t know what you’re getting. It’s like a box of chocolates, you have no clue on what you’re going to get. But he takes coaching, so we love that about him.”Q: On Chris Roland-Wallace.MERRITT&nbsp;“Chris (Roland-Wallace) has done a wonderful job for us. I mean, we have him at multiple positions. He did that his rookie year where we played him at safety, (we) played him at nickel, (we) moved him from outside and just really played him closer towards the box. And so (the) young man is very cerebral, and so he’s able to pick up the defenses and then he can do a lot of things for us. Whether it’s strong, free safety, as well as play a little dime or nickel. So having that, kind of, Swiss Army Knife is going to help us out.”Q: What are the challenges of bringing in Kristian Fulton at this time?MERRITT:&nbsp;“I think the challenge for Kristian (Fulton) is just to get his cardio. Because you can go and you can work with your offseason coach, you can go and work with your trainers, but when you come out here and you’re working with a professional coach, as well as going against a professional offense – your cardio is the first thing that you’re going to see. And so I think the good thing about him (Kristian Fulton) is today, I think he wanted to tap out, and then all of a sudden (I) just told him, ‘just keep going.’ Because he needs that, just play after play after play. So, if he can continue to expand and open his lungs, that’s going to help us all out.”WIDE RECEIVERS COACH CONNOR EMBREEQ: On Xavier Worthy’s improvement in route running.EMBREE:&nbsp;“After this season, me and him had a good talk (on) what he needs to get better at and I think he did a good job in the offseason, especially the summer of working on the stuff we were talking about. I think it shows on the field. He’s not just a straight-line go route guy. He can run multiple routes, so I really like what he did. (He) came back in great shape and then like you said he’s gotten better at route running.”Q: On dealing with so many injuries in the wide receiver room last season.EMBREE:&nbsp;“It was difficult, but I think that’s what makes us such a great team. It’s that next man up. All the second, third string guys, they know they’re one play away from being a starter. So that’s credit to them too, being in their book, knowing what to do, and when they got their opportunity, they made the most of it.”Q: On the speed of the wide receivers.EMBREE:&nbsp;“Yeah, it’s fast. It’s like a track team out there. 4x1 team. It’s next man up. They all can run. That’s kind of what our offense is based off of is just speed, speed, speed, speed. And then just like you said, we got a lot of guys that can run. So, I like the depth of our room and the speed of it.”PASS GAME COORDINATOR JOE BLEYMAIERQ: How are you able to use Xavier Worthy now that he’s in year two, in ways you couldn’t in year one?BLEYMAIER:&nbsp;“Yeah, he (Xavier Worthy) has a familiarity with the offense and scheme to where he can do more things. He can put more, in terms of where he aligns, and the routes and the concepts on his plate. He too, utilizing him more, he too, is in that identity phase in that formation of himself as a player. And so, one of the things that he does, I think, that’s a credit to him, is that he’s really emphasizing and focusing on the things that he does well. Continuing to do those (things) well, rather than just take it for granted (and) focus on the next thing he would like to build-on. He singles out Trent (McDuffie) in one-on-ones, and often times he’s going to run the same routes over and over against Trent. So really sharpening his fast ball, his main pitch, and then from there, being able to say all right, here’s how I can complement that. And here’s the other moves and the routes that can work off that. So, he’s like a microcosm of the offense, in general. In year two, he’s trying to establish that identity of here’s what I can do against anybody in the league. And then if they start taking it away, here’s how I can complement that.”Q: What have you seen from Travis Kelce this year? How has he evolved over the years?BLEYMAIER:&nbsp;“I think, I mean today was a great example. One of the hotter, last days of training camp, in full pads. We started off slow on offense. Travis gets a route one-on-one, and we haven’t seen many completions out there today, and Trav beats his man one-on-one, breaks out for a 20-yard gain, and kind of sets the tone for everybody that ‘Hey, you get man to man coverage, we’re winning these routes. Let’s go.’ So, that, just the veteran that he is, the amount of years out here, and then when everybody was pushing through the dog days of camp, it was him who made the play one-on-one against the defense. That kind of just goes to that bigger picture where maybe you don’t recognize the years as much, because it’s just the same old Trav. That’s what he’s always been doing. But for him to be able to dig deep, and do that, I mean, that was just like a fountain of youth moment today in full pads out here.”Q: What has stuck out to you the most about Patrick Mahomes this year?BLEYMAIER:&nbsp;“His ability to communicate with the veteran guys who have been here, and then also the younger guys, Jalen (Royals), who’s learning our offense, some of the newer tight ends, exactly what he wants, through their eyes. So, he can speak to Rashee (Rice) and Xavier (Worthy), Hollywood (Brown), Trav(is) (Kelce), a certain way. They have a communication that sometimes is unspoken, but then with Jalen and some of our newer tight ends and newer pass catchers, he’s been able to communicate exactly what he wants through their eyes. Which is, you can see him almost taking a breath and saying ‘Hey, I know exactly what you were thinking,’ or ‘here’s what I think you thought, and here’s how I saw it,’ and it’s just clicking. I think that’s a maturity and an experience thing from Patrick to be able to recognize the game through their eyes, and see it through their experience, and then meet them where they are. It’s been incredible to watch.”Chiefs Assistant General Managers QuotesAugust 12, 2025ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER MIKE BRADWAYQ: What is the process for choosing guys in the wide receiver room? What does that conversation look like?BRADWAY:&nbsp;“I think typically, I mean, I think, you know, the way I see it, I think in the past you kind of wanted to build it like almost like a basketball team a little bit, you know? Different, you know, different skill sets, different types of players. I think we have a lot of talented players in the room. There’s a lot of really good competition. But yeah, I think you can balance speed, physicality, run after catch, you know, special teams, aspect. So, you want to have a lot of diversity in the room in terms of skill sets. But the special team’s aspect is huge. Especially for those depth guys.”Q: The offensive and defensive lines are always emphasized in the off-season as being a priority. This off-season did it seem like the offensive line had to be the top of list in conversation?BRADWAY:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think so. And listen, it wasn’t because of, you know, the Super Bowl. I think it was, I think that’s just kind of how we want to build the roster. And we want to infuse it with youth and talent. And fortunately, through free agency and the draft, we were able to do that. And feel good (that) it’s a good blend of youth experience, (and) I think guys with versatility. So really, really, encouraged by what we’ve seen so far.”Q: On being 31 on the waiver wire and how some rivals are high on the waiver wire.BRADWAY:&nbsp;“And that’s just the reality of it. It’s a good problem to have. You’ve hit on it pretty well; you’re far down on the claim. But yeah, right now, we’re talking to every team in the league. I mean, you know, myself, all our contacts, we’re just gathering information now. So, whether that would mean potentially trading for a guy, doing a play for a player swap, maybe trying to, maybe there could be a guy that you think would be available to claim. We’re going to be active. I mean, we’re going to watch as many tapes as possible. We’re going to, you know, and maybe it just doesn’t work out, but we’re going to identify certain players that we think could help us now (and) down the road and see where it goes.”ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER CHRIS SHEAQ: How important was it to get Trey Smith and George Karlaftis signed long-term?SHEA:&nbsp;“We were very excited to be able to get both of those contracts done and you know, zooming out to the big picture, one of the core operating principles we have that (General Manager Brett) Veech has adopted as the general manager here and goes all the way up to ownership is that we want to draft well and retain our own players to the maximum extent possible that’s feasible within our constraints and we were very happy to get both of those guys done as important starters on both offense and defense.”Q: On how the changing of salary cap affects their decisions for two to three years in the future.SHEA:&nbsp;“It is an educated guesstimate, based on a lot of factors but you know generally I think teams tend to be a little bit conservative with protecting the cap, so they make sure they don’t get themselves into any dangerous waters. If the cap comes in a little bit higher than we think, then that’s a pleasant problem to have. It’s sort of found money, for lack of a better term but we work through historical trends and how we see things moving in the future to try and give us a conservative and fair number to work with.”Q: On the second-round picks across the league not signing initially and if the Chiefs knew that was coming or if it was a curveball.

Chiefs Quotes: 8-12-24

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/64bfd997-d145-4a2e-b56c-fbfa18d6dbb5?elinkdata=27554">Matt Middleton</a> has no illusions about the tasks facing him and his team in his first season as Kansas Wesleyan's football coach.

"We're a new staff," Middleton said Monday during the Kansas Conference's Football Media Day. "I tell this to the guys all the time that it doesn't matter what happened a year ago, it matters what happens now. We live in a world of what have you done for me lately? We know everything's on paper but at the end of the day we're going to be in a division that's really, really talented."

The Coyotes are paired this fall with Friends, Southwestern, McPherson, Saint Mary and Sterling in the revamped and rugged Dr. Gene Bissell Division. Friends and Southwestern qualified for NAIA postseason play last fall and were tied for 19th in the final poll while McPherson was 8-3 and just missed the playoffs. All three were in the Dr. Ted Kessinger Division.

KWU also advanced to the NAIA postseason after winning the Bissell Division.

"I would venture to say that the (Bissell) is one of the toughest divisions in NAIA football from top to bottom," Middleton said. "We're just trying to do our very best to be competitive but we're chasing those guys that have done it. We know for us to be where we want to be we've got to be able to compete with those teams that are top tier, not only in the division but in the country."

The Coyotes were fourth in the Bissell Division in the coaches poll and third in the media poll conducted Monday. The polls were identical with Friends first followed by Southwestern, then Saint Mary fifth and Sterling sixth. McPherson and KWU traded spots in the poll, KWU picked third in the media poll, McPherson third by the coaches.

Evangel was the favorite in the Kessinger Division in both polls. The coaches picked Tabor second then Avila, Bethel, Ottawa and Bethany; Bethel was second in the media survey followed by Tabor, Avila, Ottawa and Bethany.

Middleton came to KWU in December after two seasons as quarterbacks/fullbacks coach at Division II powerhouse Harding. He understands the pitfalls and possibilities of tough competition.

"The way the divisions work there's a really good football team that is at home at the end of November which is a tough thing to deal with," he said. "There are three teams (in the Bissell) that I think are top 25 in the country that will have won a lot of football games. And then you have Saint Mary with what they have coming back and where they're headed in Sterling."

A fast start in the first six games against the teams in the Kessinger Division is imperative, Middleton said.

"We all know that early in the schedule matters, it matters a lot. It's based off of who wins that gets in the playoffs. We make no mistake about it the first half of our schedule is super important for us to try to find a rhythm and find some success," he said.

That's not to say he's taking anyone for granted starting with the opener against Ottawa on August 30 at JRI Hospitality Stadium and Graves Family Sports Complex.

"We face some talented teams early," Middleton said. "Two years ago (Ottawa) was in the playoffs. Last year on paper was their down year but if you look at how close they were in so many of those games that's a super talented football team as well. So, we've got our work cut out for us across the board."

Middleton and his staff signed a large and talented recruiting class during the spring and summer.

"We had a complete roster overhaul based off of attrition and sheer numbers that left before I got here so it has definitely been a grind," he said. "But we're super excited about the staff in place and young men we brought in.

"We've tried to get guys that have played significant football to come in and help us to be competitive immediately. The KCAC is a very competitive and strong conference with a lot of really good football teams."

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/64bfd997-d145-4a2e-b56c-fbfa18d6dbb5?elinkdata=27554">Matt Middleton</a> has no illusions about the tasks facing him and his team in his first season as Kansas Wesleyan's football coach."We're a new staff," Middleton said Monday during the Kansas Conference's Football Media Day. "I tell this to the guys all the time that it doesn't matter what happened a year ago, it matters what happens now. We live in a world of what have you done for me lately? We know everything's on paper but at the end of the day we're going to be in a division that's really, really talented."The Coyotes are paired this fall with Friends, Southwestern, McPherson, Saint Mary and Sterling in the revamped and rugged Dr. Gene Bissell Division. Friends and Southwestern qualified for NAIA postseason play last fall and were tied for 19th in the final poll while McPherson was 8-3 and just missed the playoffs. All three were in the Dr. Ted Kessinger Division.KWU also advanced to the NAIA postseason after winning the Bissell Division."I would venture to say that the (Bissell) is one of the toughest divisions in NAIA football from top to bottom," Middleton said. "We're just trying to do our very best to be competitive but we're chasing those guys that have done it. We know for us to be where we want to be we've got to be able to compete with those teams that are top tier, not only in the division but in the country."The Coyotes were fourth in the Bissell Division in the coaches poll and third in the media poll conducted Monday. The polls were identical with Friends first followed by Southwestern, then Saint Mary fifth and Sterling sixth. McPherson and KWU traded spots in the poll, KWU picked third in the media poll, McPherson third by the coaches.Evangel was the favorite in the Kessinger Division in both polls. The coaches picked Tabor second then Avila, Bethel, Ottawa and Bethany; Bethel was second in the media survey followed by Tabor, Avila, Ottawa and Bethany.Middleton came to KWU in December after two seasons as quarterbacks/fullbacks coach at Division II powerhouse Harding. He understands the pitfalls and possibilities of tough competition."The way the divisions work there's a really good football team that is at home at the end of November which is a tough thing to deal with," he said. "There are three teams (in the Bissell) that I think are top 25 in the country that will have won a lot of football games. And then you have Saint Mary with what they have coming back and where they're headed in Sterling."A fast start in the first six games against the teams in the Kessinger Division is imperative, Middleton said."We all know that early in the schedule matters, it matters a lot. It's based off of who wins that gets in the playoffs. We make no mistake about it the first half of our schedule is super important for us to try to find a rhythm and find some success," he said.That's not to say he's taking anyone for granted starting with the opener against Ottawa on August 30 at JRI Hospitality Stadium and Graves Family Sports Complex."We face some talented teams early," Middleton said. "Two years ago (Ottawa) was in the playoffs. Last year on paper was their down year but if you look at how close they were in so many of those games that's a super talented football team as well. So, we've got our work cut out for us across the board."Middleton and his staff signed a large and talented recruiting class during the spring and summer."We had a complete roster overhaul based off of attrition and sheer numbers that left before I got here so it has definitely been a grind," he said. "But we're super excited about the staff in place and young men we brought in."We've tried to get guys that have played significant football to come in and help us to be competitive immediately. The KCAC is a very competitive and strong conference with a lot of really good football teams."

Middleton ready for the weekly challenges the KCAC presents

WICHITA, Kan. - Kansas Wesleyan had two student-athletes named to the 2025 KCAC Volleyball Preseason team as announced by the conference office.

The team is made up of returning All-KCAC first- and second-team honorees from the 2024 season.

KWU's <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e13b5a59-c6e1-43e2-9e6c-cb9c647d0c3a?elinkdata=27523">Rylee Serpan</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/dd584cfb-5be5-4f95-a1f0-d2605333ddf6?elinkdata=27523">Kylee Harris</a> were named to the team. Both were second-team picks a year ago.

Serpan ranked eighth in the KCAC in kills per set last season, averaging 3.18 kills per set, while hitting .229. In KCAC play, she averaged 2.85 kills per set, which ranked 16th in the conference.

Harris ranked 10th in the KCAC overall in kills per set last season, averaging 3.0 kills per set, while hitting .234 for the season. She ranked 15th in the KCAC in kills per set in conference play averaging 2.90 per set, with a .193 attack percentage.

Oklahoma Wesleyan had four student-athletes on the list, led by returning Player of the Year Evelyn Rohrberg, Setter of the Year Sydney Collins and Freshman of the Year Maia Rubio.

The preseason team includes one sophomore. five juniors, and eight seniors.

WICHITA, Kan. - Kansas Wesleyan had two student-athletes named to the 2025 KCAC Volleyball Preseason team as announced by the conference office.The team is made up of returning All-KCAC first- and second-team honorees from the 2024 season.KWU's <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e13b5a59-c6e1-43e2-9e6c-cb9c647d0c3a?elinkdata=27523">Rylee Serpan</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/dd584cfb-5be5-4f95-a1f0-d2605333ddf6?elinkdata=27523">Kylee Harris</a> were named to the team. Both were second-team picks a year ago.Serpan ranked eighth in the KCAC in kills per set last season, averaging 3.18 kills per set, while hitting .229. In KCAC play, she averaged 2.85 kills per set, which ranked 16th in the conference.Harris ranked 10th in the KCAC overall in kills per set last season, averaging 3.0 kills per set, while hitting .234 for the season. She ranked 15th in the KCAC in kills per set in conference play averaging 2.90 per set, with a .193 attack percentage.Oklahoma Wesleyan had four student-athletes on the list, led by returning Player of the Year Evelyn Rohrberg, Setter of the Year Sydney Collins and Freshman of the Year Maia Rubio.The preseason team includes one sophomore. five juniors, and eight seniors.

Serpan and Harris named to KCAC Volleyball Preseason Team

The Kansas Shrine Bowl has announced the selection of Mike Berg, Wellsville High School, and Daniel Myears, Mulvane High School, to serve as the head coaches for the 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl on Saturday, June 27, 2026. The head coaches are selected from the group of assistant coaches from the previous year’s game after a vote from the previous year’s coaching staff, camp directors and support staff. The 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl will be played on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Welch Stadium on the campus of Emporia State University in Emporia, Kansas.

The East team will be led by Wellsville High School Head Coach Mike Berg, who is entering his 7th year as the Head Coach at Wellsville and his 26th season overall as a head coach. Berg spent 19 years as the Head Coach at Baldwin High School from 1998-2016. In his first six seasons at Wellsville, Berg has compiled a record of 47-14, including a state semifinals appearance in 2024. Berg’s overall record across his 25 seasons at Wellsville and Baldwin is 164-96. Berg began his coaching career at his alma mater Baker University, following his playing days for the Wildcats, where he earned All-American honors his senior season. Berg was inducted into the Baker University Hall of Fame in 2019 and the Greater Kansas City Football Coaches Association (GKCFCA) Hall of Fame in 2024. Berg also served as the President of the GKCFCA from 2013-2014. Mike and his wife, Amy, have three adult children and five grandchildren. His son, Chad Berg, played in the 2014 Kansas Shrine Bowl for the East team representing Baldwin High School.

"It's a privilege to be a part of the Kansas Shrine Bowl and spread awareness for the Shriners’ mission of providing pediatric care to children,” said Coach Berg. “The help the Shriners give directly to the children is life changing. I am honored to be selected to work with some of the best coaches and student athletes in the state of Kansas."

Leading the West team will be Mulvane High School Head Coach Daniel Myears. Coach Myears is entering his 8th season as the Head Coach at Mulvane, and his 23rd season overall on the coaching staff at Mulvane. Myears has a 31-35 overall record at Mulvane following a 7-3 record during the 2024 season. Coach Myears began his coaching career as an offensive assistant at Friends University before joining the staff at his High School alma mater under longtime Mulvane Head Coach Dave Fennewald, where Myears served as the offensive coordinator from 2011-2017. Daniel and his wife, Chele, have two adult children.

“I am truly honored and humbled to be named the Head Coach of the West squad for the 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl in June 2026,” said Coach Myears. “My experience as an assistant coach in 2025 was incredible, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to once again give back to the Shriners Organization and be a part of this meaningful event.”

The West team won the 2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl, 26-8, to extend their all-time series advantage to 32-18-2. The 2026 game returns to Emporia, where the East has won the last two games played at Welch Stadium and four of the six all-time games played on the campus of Emporia State University. The 2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl will be played at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 27, 2026.

“We are grateful to have these two outstanding coaches accept our invitation to lead our 2026 teams,” said Kansas Shrine Bowl Executive Director, Brice Kesler. “It takes a lot of special people to make this event happen and the time and talent that our coaches give towards our game and our cause cannot be overstated.”

The Kansas Shrine Bowl has announced the selection of Mike Berg, Wellsville High School, and Daniel Myears, Mulvane High School, to serve as the head coaches for the 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl on Saturday, June 27, 2026. The head coaches are selected from the group of assistant coaches from the previous year’s game after a vote from the previous year’s coaching staff, camp directors and support staff. The 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl will be played on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Welch Stadium on the campus of Emporia State University in Emporia, Kansas.The East team will be led by Wellsville High School Head Coach Mike Berg, who is entering his 7th year as the Head Coach at Wellsville and his 26th season overall as a head coach. Berg spent 19 years as the Head Coach at Baldwin High School from 1998-2016. In his first six seasons at Wellsville, Berg has compiled a record of 47-14, including a state semifinals appearance in 2024. Berg’s overall record across his 25 seasons at Wellsville and Baldwin is 164-96. Berg began his coaching career at his alma mater Baker University, following his playing days for the Wildcats, where he earned All-American honors his senior season. Berg was inducted into the Baker University Hall of Fame in 2019 and the Greater Kansas City Football Coaches Association (GKCFCA) Hall of Fame in 2024. Berg also served as the President of the GKCFCA from 2013-2014. Mike and his wife, Amy, have three adult children and five grandchildren. His son, Chad Berg, played in the 2014 Kansas Shrine Bowl for the East team representing Baldwin High School."It's a privilege to be a part of the Kansas Shrine Bowl and spread awareness for the Shriners’ mission of providing pediatric care to children,” said Coach Berg. “The help the Shriners give directly to the children is life changing. I am honored to be selected to work with some of the best coaches and student athletes in the state of Kansas."Leading the West team will be Mulvane High School Head Coach Daniel Myears. Coach Myears is entering his 8th season as the Head Coach at Mulvane, and his 23rd season overall on the coaching staff at Mulvane. Myears has a 31-35 overall record at Mulvane following a 7-3 record during the 2024 season. Coach Myears began his coaching career as an offensive assistant at Friends University before joining the staff at his High School alma mater under longtime Mulvane Head Coach Dave Fennewald, where Myears served as the offensive coordinator from 2011-2017. Daniel and his wife, Chele, have two adult children.“I am truly honored and humbled to be named the Head Coach of the West squad for the 53rd Kansas Shrine Bowl in June 2026,” said Coach Myears. “My experience as an assistant coach in 2025 was incredible, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to once again give back to the Shriners Organization and be a part of this meaningful event.”The West team won the 2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl, 26-8, to extend their all-time series advantage to 32-18-2. The 2026 game returns to Emporia, where the East has won the last two games played at Welch Stadium and four of the six all-time games played on the campus of Emporia State University. The 2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl will be played at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 27, 2026.“We are grateful to have these two outstanding coaches accept our invitation to lead our 2026 teams,” said Kansas Shrine Bowl Executive Director, Brice Kesler. “It takes a lot of special people to make this event happen and the time and talent that our coaches give towards our game and our cause cannot be overstated.”

2026 Kansas Shrine Bowl Head Coaches Announced

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvadore Perez and Kyle Isbel hit two-run homers in the sixth inning and the Kansas City Royals beat the Washington Nationals 7-4 on Monday night.

<a href="https://x.com/RoyalsDingers/status/1955078948276031846">Perez homered</a>&nbsp;off rookie Cade Cavalli after Maikel Garcia drew a leadoff walk, tying the game at 4. Adam Frazier singled, chasing Cavalli, and Jackson Rutledge (1-2) entered and retired Randal Grichuk on a double-play grounder. Nick Loftin had a two-out single before scoring on&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/RoyalsDingers/status/1955081255650808176">Isbel's fourth homer</a>. Perez's homer was his 21st.

James Wood walked leading off the first against Bailey Falter in his home debut for the Royals after being acquired from the Pirates at the trade deadline. Josh Bell hit his 15th homer — a 422-foot, two-out shot to left-center — to give the Nationals a 2-0 lead.

Garcia, Perez and Frazier had consecutive singles to start the second for the Royals' first run. Loftin's sacrifice fly tied it 2-all.

Falter left a tie game after four innings and 76 pitches. Wood singled off Daniel Lynch IV (4-2) leading off the fifth and Paul DeJong hit his fourth homer one out later to put the Nationals up 4-2.

Mike Yastrzemski added a run in the eighth with a sac fly. Frazier finished 3 for 4 and Carlos Estévez pitched the ninth for his 30th save.

Bobby Witt Jr. went 2 for 5 in his return to the Royals lineup after back tightness forced him to miss his second game of the season on Sunday.

Kansas City won the opener of a 10-game homestand and moved to 59-60 on the season.

Isbel's go-ahead shot came after he popped out in foul territory on a 3-1 pitch with one out and runners on second and third in a tie game in the second inning.

The Royals have scored 441 runs, fewest in the AL.

Nationals LHP Mitchell Parker (7-12, 5.43 ERA) will start Tuesday opposite Royals RHP Michael Wacha (6-9, 3.36).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754993233351.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) celebrates with Maikel Garcia after hitting a two-run home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Washington Nationals, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) celebrates with Maikel Garcia after hitting a two-run home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Washington Nationals, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvadore Perez and Kyle Isbel hit two-run homers in the sixth inning and the Kansas City Royals beat the Washington Nationals 7-4 on Monday night.<a href="https://x.com/RoyalsDingers/status/1955078948276031846">Perez homered</a>&nbsp;off rookie Cade Cavalli after Maikel Garcia drew a leadoff walk, tying the game at 4. Adam Frazier singled, chasing Cavalli, and Jackson Rutledge (1-2) entered and retired Randal Grichuk on a double-play grounder. Nick Loftin had a two-out single before scoring on&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/RoyalsDingers/status/1955081255650808176">Isbel's fourth homer</a>. Perez's homer was his 21st.James Wood walked leading off the first against Bailey Falter in his home debut for the Royals after being acquired from the Pirates at the trade deadline. Josh Bell hit his 15th homer — a 422-foot, two-out shot to left-center — to give the Nationals a 2-0 lead.Garcia, Perez and Frazier had consecutive singles to start the second for the Royals' first run. Loftin's sacrifice fly tied it 2-all.Falter left a tie game after four innings and 76 pitches. Wood singled off Daniel Lynch IV (4-2) leading off the fifth and Paul DeJong hit his fourth homer one out later to put the Nationals up 4-2.Mike Yastrzemski added a run in the eighth with a sac fly. Frazier finished 3 for 4 and Carlos Estévez pitched the ninth for his 30th save.Bobby Witt Jr. went 2 for 5 in his return to the Royals lineup after back tightness forced him to miss his second game of the season on Sunday.Kansas City won the opener of a 10-game homestand and moved to 59-60 on the season.<h2>Key moment</h2>Isbel's go-ahead shot came after he popped out in foul territory on a 3-1 pitch with one out and runners on second and third in a tie game in the second inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals have scored 441 runs, fewest in the AL.<h2>Up next</h2>Nationals LHP Mitchell Parker (7-12, 5.43 ERA) will start Tuesday opposite Royals RHP Michael Wacha (6-9, 3.36).

⚾ Perez and Isbel  homers power Royals past the Nationals

This Chiefs Training Camp report is presented by Kansas Wesleyan and Credit Union of America.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ao-aFuN3oX4"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This Chiefs Training Camp report is presented by Kansas Wesleyan and Credit Union of America.

Chiefs Training Camp Report: 8-11-25

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State Athletics officials announced Monday that standing room-only tickets are all that remain for the September 27 matchup against UCF as demand continues to rise for the 2025 football season.

Fans still hoping to experience the electric atmosphere of a home game this fall are encouraged to act fast as limited tickets remain for the home opener against North Dakota on August 30 and the Fort Riley Day game against Army on September 6.

Upcoming Home Games with Limited Availability:

Saturday, August 30 – vs. North Dakota (Stripe Out and Postgame Drone Show)

Saturday, September 6 – vs. Army (Fort Riley Day)

Additional ticket inventory for all home games continues to move quickly. Tickets can be purchased by&nbsp;<a href="https://kstatesports.evenue.net/events/FBSG?elqTrackId=E6C1DA05C938147E6FD723A4BDF84002&amp;elqTrack=true" target="_blank">clicking here</a>, by phone at 1-800-221-CATS or in person at the K-State Athletics Ticket Office.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State Athletics officials announced Monday that standing room-only tickets are all that remain for the September 27 matchup against UCF as demand continues to rise for the 2025 football season.Fans still hoping to experience the electric atmosphere of a home game this fall are encouraged to act fast as limited tickets remain for the home opener against North Dakota on August 30 and the Fort Riley Day game against Army on September 6.Upcoming Home Games with Limited Availability:Saturday, August 30 – vs. North Dakota (Stripe Out and Postgame Drone Show)Saturday, September 6 – vs. Army (Fort Riley Day)Additional ticket inventory for all home games continues to move quickly. Tickets can be purchased by&nbsp;<a href="https://kstatesports.evenue.net/events/FBSG?elqTrackId=E6C1DA05C938147E6FD723A4BDF84002&amp;elqTrack=true" target="_blank">clicking here</a>, by phone at 1-800-221-CATS or in person at the K-State Athletics Ticket Office.

Standing Room Only Tickets Remain for K-State’s Game Against UCF

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid Quotes

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, as far as the injuries go here, (Jake) Briningstool did not practice today, Hollywood (Brown) didn’t practice, Deon Bush had an Achilles tendon rupture, we will get that fixed, (Ethan) Driskell had the appendectomy, he got it fixed, so were doing good there. Janarius Robinson ended up having a foot fracture on his little toe there and then Jaylen Watson had a concussion. Other than that, everybody got out there and moved around. So, we had a 10-10-10 practice today working some situational things and it was good work. As far as the game goes, very similar to what I mentioned after the game that (there) were too many mistakes. As far as penalties go you have 108-yards of penalty, that’s a good day rushing for a running back and you can’t have that. You can’t go backwards on the offensive side, and you can’t allow them to move forward on the defensive side. So, we’ve got to clean that up. Within that there were some good individual efforts, with some of the young guys it was good to see them practice. It was good to see the young guys on the left side of the line do their thing. A couple of defensive players, young guys that I thought did well. (Nohl) Williams jumped out with some big physical plays on special teams and on the defensive side. So, anyway, I thought the young guys did a – collectively a nice job. With that, time is yours.”

Q: What did you think about Kingsley Suamataia’s performance in the first preseason game?

REID:&nbsp;“I thought he (Kingsley Suamataia) did a good job. Both he and (Josh) Simmons, I thought worked well together. They didn’t have a ton of snaps, but for what they had, I thought they did well with.”

Q: What did you want to see from Mike Caliendo in the first preseason game and what do you hope to see from him moving forward?

REID:&nbsp;“I thought Mike (Caliendo) actually played well in the game, too. But I would expect that. We look at him like he’s a starter, which he did last year. He got great experience last year. So, we have pure confidence that he can step in and play either of those positions that you mentioned there.”

Q: How do you address the penalties from the game, here at practice?

REID:&nbsp;“You just have to detail your work. You have to focus in on the game plan, know where you’re at and then understand the snap counts – and up your attention span there so that you get those covered.”

Q: How do you see the wide receiver competition shaking out?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah (laughs). Listen, we’ll have a tough decision to make, (General Manager) Brett (Veach) will and the coaches. There are some good players there and we will just see how it sorts out here. We have a couple more games (and) a few more practices, so we will see how it all sorts out before we have to make those cuts. Listen, I’m pleased with what we have there - some of the young guys (on) how they’re going out here and producing. You know what I’m saying.”

Q:&nbsp;How is Hollywood Brown’s ankle sprain? Was it a high ankle sprain?

REID:&nbsp;“It’s not really a high ankle sprain. It’s more (of the) ankle/foot area. He’s (Hollywood Brown) making great progress, so he’s up and running now, a little bit. So, that’s a positive, I don’t think he’s too far out, but we will see. He’s doing good.”

Q<a>:</a>&nbsp;On Robert Tonyan’s performance.

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, Robert (Tonyan) did. He did some good things (and) there’s some things he has to work on, he’s a veteran guy and he knows that. More in the run game than probably the pass game, but I thought he caught the ball well, he had some big catches and then he had the one drop he’d like to have back. But he’ll figure that one out and get it taken care of. This guy has been productive in the league, so he gets it. He’s been banged up a little bit, and he’s been able to keep himself healthy and on the field. Which has been probably the issue over the last couple of years.”

Q:&nbsp;On how the defense performed in the first preseason game.

BOLTON:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think we did a decent job during the game. I think tackling was pretty decent, we got some leaky yards. I think our run defense showed up pretty well, got some physicality and obviously we got a turnover. Some of the things we wanted to do this year, we were able to do that, so I think it’s a good start, good foundation but a lot to improve on still.”

Q:&nbsp;On Jeffrey Bassa’s improvement throughout camp.

BOLTON:&nbsp;“He (Jeffrey Bassa) definitely – every week, every day he’s getting a little bit better. (He is) learning the scheme, asking good questions (and) trying to find the right answer. I think all those things add up over time and you can see in the game, he led the team in tackles if I’m not mistaken. Off to a good start. That dude is confident, (he is a) confident guy, high IQ guy, I’m excited for what he has for us.”

Q:&nbsp;What kind of Coach is Brendan Daly?

BOLTON:&nbsp;“(Linebackers) Coach (Brendan) Daly is definitely a player’s coach, man, (and) definitely tries to find ways to make his players around him better. (He) understands that everybody’s not the same, so he gives you different schools and keys based off your size and your style of play. Me and Leo (Chenal) don’t have the same exact skillset, neither do me and Drue (Tranquill), so he definitely (Coach Brendan Daly) tries to find things (for the) individual to cater around that. (It) definitely makes our job a little bit easier, we just come out there and just execute what he has out there in drills, and we just go out there and play and have fun. But also, he’s a high IQ guy, obviously he has won a lot, been a lot of different places and (has) been able to win. He brings that to our room: competition, IQ (and) physicality. All things he preaches, and he is a great coach.”

Q:&nbsp;On his description of the tight end room.

WILEY:&nbsp;“It’s great. A great group of guys. We joke around all day; we compete all the time. Having those older guys mixed in with the younger guys like we have, it’s been awesome.”

Q:&nbsp;What was the most challenging part of your recovery process?

WILEY:&nbsp;“Honestly, just figuring out who I was outside of football, to be honest with you. Like I said earlier, just having something like that stripped away from you and then having to find a way to still stay involved as much as you can. But I would say it would be that, you really feel like you are missing out getting to watch these guys play on Sundays and you’re just at the house, just kind of (having your) feet kicked back, it sucked.”

Q:&nbsp;On if he gained a new level of respect for Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce over the course of a year.

WILEY:&nbsp;"Oh yeah, 1,000%. You think you know until you go through a real NFL season. It’s a lot longer than what you could ever imagine. Just seeing guys like that (Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce) doing it week in and week out, it’s really special to see."

Q: What stands out about the Chiefs offense?

MINSHEW:&nbsp;“I love the way they teach it here, man. I think between (Offensive Coordinator) Coach (Matt) Nagy, (Quarterbacks) Coach (David) Girardi in our room, (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid, obviously. They communicate very well on like, potential looks that you can get, how the play might adjust on the fly, and really give the guys the opportunity to go play ball and be successful. So that’s been a lot of fun.”

MINSHEW:&nbsp;“It’s been awesome, man. I love just getting the work. That’s really the only way you get better in this league is to get in there and run reps. So, I’ve been very fortunate enough this camp to get as many as I have, and I think it’s been good for us as a group.”&nbsp;

Q: What has Head Coach Andy Reid been challenging you on?

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid QuotesAugust 11, 2025OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, as far as the injuries go here, (Jake) Briningstool did not practice today, Hollywood (Brown) didn’t practice, Deon Bush had an Achilles tendon rupture, we will get that fixed, (Ethan) Driskell had the appendectomy, he got it fixed, so were doing good there. Janarius Robinson ended up having a foot fracture on his little toe there and then Jaylen Watson had a concussion. Other than that, everybody got out there and moved around. So, we had a 10-10-10 practice today working some situational things and it was good work. As far as the game goes, very similar to what I mentioned after the game that (there) were too many mistakes. As far as penalties go you have 108-yards of penalty, that’s a good day rushing for a running back and you can’t have that. You can’t go backwards on the offensive side, and you can’t allow them to move forward on the defensive side. So, we’ve got to clean that up. Within that there were some good individual efforts, with some of the young guys it was good to see them practice. It was good to see the young guys on the left side of the line do their thing. A couple of defensive players, young guys that I thought did well. (Nohl) Williams jumped out with some big physical plays on special teams and on the defensive side. So, anyway, I thought the young guys did a – collectively a nice job. With that, time is yours.”Q: What did you think about Kingsley Suamataia’s performance in the first preseason game?REID:&nbsp;“I thought he (Kingsley Suamataia) did a good job. Both he and (Josh) Simmons, I thought worked well together. They didn’t have a ton of snaps, but for what they had, I thought they did well with.”Q: What did you want to see from Mike Caliendo in the first preseason game and what do you hope to see from him moving forward?REID:&nbsp;“I thought Mike (Caliendo) actually played well in the game, too. But I would expect that. We look at him like he’s a starter, which he did last year. He got great experience last year. So, we have pure confidence that he can step in and play either of those positions that you mentioned there.”Q: How do you address the penalties from the game, here at practice?REID:&nbsp;“You just have to detail your work. You have to focus in on the game plan, know where you’re at and then understand the snap counts – and up your attention span there so that you get those covered.”Q: How do you see the wide receiver competition shaking out?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah (laughs). Listen, we’ll have a tough decision to make, (General Manager) Brett (Veach) will and the coaches. There are some good players there and we will just see how it sorts out here. We have a couple more games (and) a few more practices, so we will see how it all sorts out before we have to make those cuts. Listen, I’m pleased with what we have there - some of the young guys (on) how they’re going out here and producing. You know what I’m saying.”Q:&nbsp;How is Hollywood Brown’s ankle sprain? Was it a high ankle sprain?REID:&nbsp;“It’s not really a high ankle sprain. It’s more (of the) ankle/foot area. He’s (Hollywood Brown) making great progress, so he’s up and running now, a little bit. So, that’s a positive, I don’t think he’s too far out, but we will see. He’s doing good.”Q<a>:</a>&nbsp;On Robert Tonyan’s performance.REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, Robert (Tonyan) did. He did some good things (and) there’s some things he has to work on, he’s a veteran guy and he knows that. More in the run game than probably the pass game, but I thought he caught the ball well, he had some big catches and then he had the one drop he’d like to have back. But he’ll figure that one out and get it taken care of. This guy has been productive in the league, so he gets it. He’s been banged up a little bit, and he’s been able to keep himself healthy and on the field. Which has been probably the issue over the last couple of years.”Chiefs Player QuotesAugust 11, 2025LB NICK BOLTONQ:&nbsp;On how the defense performed in the first preseason game.BOLTON:&nbsp;“Yeah, I think we did a decent job during the game. I think tackling was pretty decent, we got some leaky yards. I think our run defense showed up pretty well, got some physicality and obviously we got a turnover. Some of the things we wanted to do this year, we were able to do that, so I think it’s a good start, good foundation but a lot to improve on still.”Q:&nbsp;On Jeffrey Bassa’s improvement throughout camp.BOLTON:&nbsp;“He (Jeffrey Bassa) definitely – every week, every day he’s getting a little bit better. (He is) learning the scheme, asking good questions (and) trying to find the right answer. I think all those things add up over time and you can see in the game, he led the team in tackles if I’m not mistaken. Off to a good start. That dude is confident, (he is a) confident guy, high IQ guy, I’m excited for what he has for us.”Q:&nbsp;What kind of Coach is Brendan Daly?BOLTON:&nbsp;“(Linebackers) Coach (Brendan) Daly is definitely a player’s coach, man, (and) definitely tries to find ways to make his players around him better. (He) understands that everybody’s not the same, so he gives you different schools and keys based off your size and your style of play. Me and Leo (Chenal) don’t have the same exact skillset, neither do me and Drue (Tranquill), so he definitely (Coach Brendan Daly) tries to find things (for the) individual to cater around that. (It) definitely makes our job a little bit easier, we just come out there and just execute what he has out there in drills, and we just go out there and play and have fun. But also, he’s a high IQ guy, obviously he has won a lot, been a lot of different places and (has) been able to win. He brings that to our room: competition, IQ (and) physicality. All things he preaches, and he is a great coach.”TE JARED WILEYQ:&nbsp;On his description of the tight end room.WILEY:&nbsp;“It’s great. A great group of guys. We joke around all day; we compete all the time. Having those older guys mixed in with the younger guys like we have, it’s been awesome.”Q:&nbsp;What was the most challenging part of your recovery process?WILEY:&nbsp;“Honestly, just figuring out who I was outside of football, to be honest with you. Like I said earlier, just having something like that stripped away from you and then having to find a way to still stay involved as much as you can. But I would say it would be that, you really feel like you are missing out getting to watch these guys play on Sundays and you’re just at the house, just kind of (having your) feet kicked back, it sucked.”Q:&nbsp;On if he gained a new level of respect for Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce over the course of a year.WILEY:&nbsp;"Oh yeah, 1,000%. You think you know until you go through a real NFL season. It’s a lot longer than what you could ever imagine. Just seeing guys like that (Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce) doing it week in and week out, it’s really special to see."QB GARDNER MINSHEWQ: What stands out about the Chiefs offense?MINSHEW:&nbsp;“I love the way they teach it here, man. I think between (Offensive Coordinator) Coach (Matt) Nagy, (Quarterbacks) Coach (David) Girardi in our room, (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid, obviously. They communicate very well on like, potential looks that you can get, how the play might adjust on the fly, and really give the guys the opportunity to go play ball and be successful. So that’s been a lot of fun.”Q: On the “long-drive” drill.MINSHEW:&nbsp;“It’s been awesome, man. I love just getting the work. That’s really the only way you get better in this league is to get in there and run reps. So, I’ve been very fortunate enough this camp to get as many as I have, and I think it’s been good for us as a group.”&nbsp;Q: What has Head Coach Andy Reid been challenging you on?

Chiefs Quotes: 8-11-25

For <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f1960e02-1755-4c40-9f2a-84539558f657?elinkdata=27492">Matt Middleton</a> the time has come to cut to the chase.

For <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f1960e02-1755-4c40-9f2a-84539558f657?elinkdata=27492">Matt Middleton</a> the time has come to cut to the chase.Since being named Kansas Wesleyan's football coach eight months ago he has checked the requisite boxes in preparation for his first season at the Coyotes' helm. Working with a squad of approximately 150 Middleton and his staff have their sights on the season opener against Ottawa at 6 p.m. at Dr. Gene Bissell Field at JRI Hospitality Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex.Middleton is ready."You go through the recruiting cycle and build your roster then go through spring practice and find out where you need immediate help. We feel like we've done that," he said. "I think the kids, the staff, all of us are ready to go play. I know I am, I'm ready to get to it."Middleton was quarterbacks/fullbacks coach at Division II powerhouse Harding for the last two years."I feel like we've got a really good staff, I feel like we've got a really good team," he said. "Obviously, we have to go prove that. We haven't been in the fire together; we have not played in a game; we haven't faced adversity yet. So, all that on paper is one thing but you've still got to go do it. We need to fight through some adversity early and some things to go our way. If that happens then we can grow as a team and we'll see where it takes us."With a new staff and numerous roster additions Middleton is like a kid on Christmas morning - anxious to see what he has."You feel like you have certain guys that you know are playmakers and then you're always going to have some surprises," he said. "There are always some guys that you didn't count on early on that end up being really good, impactful players."OFFENSEMiddleton is relying on a mix of returning players and newcomers.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/07a1f92d-c9f9-47e3-a00c-200ec291c0d2?elinkdata=27492">Henry Austad</a>, a transfer from Southeastern (Florida), and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4cd14a4f-4800-4a0a-a332-c68c3cb6cbbe?elinkdata=27492">Caden Middleton</a>, Middleton's son and a transfer from Southern Arkansas headline the list at quarterback. Austad started all nine games and threw for 935 yards and six touchdowns last season as the Firebirds went 7-2. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/27741594-2a05-4ecf-9deb-5120ca7c7ac2?elinkdata=27492">Caden Middleton</a> was a redshirt last fall but played his freshman season."We have a veteran quarterback who has played a lot of football at other places other than here, and our backup quarterback is a veteran football player that's played a lot of games too," <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/ae048294-bc18-4319-aac4-685d81f3bf14?elinkdata=27492">Matt Middleton</a> said. "He's been around some football, so you have two guys that are in the one-two spot that have played a lot of college football."Running back <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7eaa9e08-0e85-47bc-a0b8-83c2e55779ce?elinkdata=27492">Luke Armstrong</a> returns after earning NAIA First Team All-America honors in 2024. He led the KCAC in rushing with 1,453 yards and scored 16 touchdowns. Veteran <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2ddc528a-38b2-4a8e-8a1d-570c4ac5bd56?elinkdata=27492">D'Heaven Domena</a> is in the mix after a solid spring."We've got a lot of playmakers on offense," Middleton said. "The NAIA knows who Luke is, so does everybody else in our league. We've had to make sure that we surround him with some other playmakers that enable him to make plays and not be the focal point every week. And other defenses know that."<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/e059ac14-77ff-468e-a390-dbe6425501ab?elinkdata=27492">Rhadarious Lomax-Spivey</a> returns at wide receiver after sitting out last season. He caught 27 passes for 465 yards in 2023. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0c90021a-d344-4783-a03b-5adde3f4d826?elinkdata=27492">Will Wilcox</a> (Henderson State) and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1cb7b616-dc73-4ac2-90ac-b1e30e7423ac?elinkdata=27492">Jevin Dorsey</a> (Western New Mexico) were outstanding in the spring."We feel like we're in some scenarios to have some guys make some plays off each other and that's what you want," Middleton said. "You don't want one or two guys that the defense can key on and try to take them out of the game."I don't know that we'll have a feature back, so to speak, or a feature receiver. It's our job as an offensive staff to try to get those guys in the best position to make plays and that is going to be our goal."The guys up front appear to be capable as well. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1530e1d2-faf6-4bfe-a9c6-0513d72135ac?elinkdata=27492">Easton Lewis</a>, a Third-Team All-American, leads the group at center."I do think the strength of our team right now is in the offensive line," Middleton said. "We've got some guys that are back and then we've sprinkled in some newcomers that are really good football players and played a lot of football at other places."Middleton said the scheme could vary week to week."I hope we're going to bring exciting brand of football but we're going to do whatever it takes to win a football game whether that's run it 80 times or throw it 80 times," he said. "I don't really want to be married to a system or a percentage of run/pass or those things. Whatever the defense gives us is what we're going to do."DEFENSEMiddleton and his staff spent the summer bolstering the ranks after the spring scrimmage. He likes what he's seen so far."Coach (David) Leonard and those guys on the defensive staff have worked really hard this summer," he said. "We needed to go get help and we brought in several Division II transfers that have played a lot of games, some have started a lot of games. I do feel completely different on paper than I did at the end of spring."Linebacker <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d06323b7-8447-434c-b8d1-d5f43d864aeb?elinkdata=27492">Myles Elam</a> and end <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fdf3403e-3bc8-4421-a2d3-52fcc617cce3?elinkdata=27492">Josh King-Bradley</a> were major contributors last fall and are back. Elam had a team-best 117 tackles (sixth in the NAIA). King-Bradley had a team-high 17 tackles for loss that included 13 sacks (second in the NAIA) and received Third Team All-America recognition."Myles is a really good football player," Middleton said. "He's one of those that played at an extremely high level (in high school) in Texas. He's been coached well a long time; you can see it in him."Key newcomers are end <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/68b52d96-b377-4ac3-89d6-8f703f9d232f?elinkdata=27492">Diego Davis</a> (Harding), edge Gavin Skerek (Shasta) and safety <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f41da707-9e6d-45f1-8376-f3a3b07951a0?elinkdata=27492">Robert Rezex</a> (Southern Arkansas)."We feel like we're in a position to get better quickly defensively," Middleton said. "Really good players make coaches look a lot better than they really are. The name of the game is playing with dudes and that's what we're going to do."SPECIAL TEAMSPlacekickers <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8efc879a-77eb-4504-bcd9-9d347bff918e?elinkdata=27492">Cole Segraves</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7c697570-c6d3-4760-b121-18c96d2f1a64?elinkdata=27492">Talon Cope</a> return along with punter <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/879fa91f-4343-4fb0-9132-9b46fc5d24bc?elinkdata=27492">Griffin Wiltse</a>. Segraves handles kickoffs and had three field goals in 2024 while Cope converted 10 field goals and 35 extra points. Wiltse averaged 35.3 yards per punt. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4bf85081-c993-4dcc-a95d-2e47d66267ee?elinkdata=27492">Enoch Walton</a> is the long snapper."<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/363e1225-db82-41de-a080-b49754c9411e?elinkdata=27492">Cole Segraves</a>, I believe, is one of the best kickers in the country, there's no ifs, ands or buts about that," Middleton said. "He's got an extremely powerful leg on kickoffs and field goals. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d1ffd075-deef-4afd-95f2-c73247970a1e?elinkdata=27492">Talon Cope</a> has been a guy that had kicked a lot of extra points and field goals here through the years."I'm a special teams guy and I brought a guy from Harding with me (<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/458f5d71-3355-41b6-826a-52d724ce096b?elinkdata=27492">Ben Blahauvietz</a>) that is a special teams guy so we're going to put an emphasis on it. It's really big in what you do and we're going to try to steal possessions and make big plays and be explosive on special teams. I really like where we're headed schematically there as well."KANSAS CONFERENCEKWU faces a stern test after the KCAC realigned the two divisions after last season. The Coyotes are joined in the Dr. Gene Bissell Division by Friends, Southwestern and McPherson who combined for 30 victories last fall. Saint Mary and Sterling round out the division."I feel like we play the Green Bay Packers every week," Middleton said. "That's how important it is to our staff so week one to me is just as important as week eight because it means something overall. We know we've got to handle our business week to week."We're going to need to have some success early. If you don't win it outright, then you need to be in the mix for an at-large bid so every game matters. Most important game of the year is the one at hand which is week one versus Ottawa. I'm ready to get out and see what this conference is about because I'm nervous as a cat no matter what."AT THE END OF THE DAY ...