Darren Sproles: a Wildcat Legend

Darren Sproles was a legend at Kansas State, and may in fact be the greatest Wildcat of all time.

In mid-July, Darren Sproles agreed to a one year deal to return to the Philadelphia Eagles for what will be his 15th season in the NFL. As this season has progressed, Sproles has spent more time injured than he has on the field, and all signs point to this being the end of his illustrious career. 

Earlier this year, he did make one last splash as he moved to #5 all time on the career yardage list:

Darren Sproles just passed Tim Brown to move into fifth place on the NFL's all-time list for all-purpose yards. #Eagles

— Rob Maaddi (@RobMaaddi) October 6, 2019

A native of Olathe, Kansas, Sproles stands out as one of the greatest football players ever from the state of Kansas. While attending Olathe North High School, Sproles rushed for 5230 yards, 84 touchdowns and averaged an unbelievable 8.4 yards per carry. He was a two time all-state selection, a two time state-wide Player of the Year, and a high school All-American. In addition to his football accolades, Sproles achieved multiple state finalist placings in track, running the 100 and 200 meter sprints.

43 Days until Kansas State football

K-State's all time leading rusher, #43 Darren Sproles was a 1st team All American in 2003. pic.twitter.com/qgxYSHOySo

— The Kansas State Fan (@Thekstatefan) July 19, 2019

Sproles committed to Kansas State after receiving limited interest from other schools. After only getting 28 carries his freshman year, Sproles took off as a junior. He ended his college career with nearly 5000 yards rushing, a 6.1 YPC average, and 45 touchdowns. 

Sproles was drafted in the 4th round of the 2005 draft, and undoubtedly fell because teams feared he was too small for the NFL game. 15 years later, its clear they were wrong.

Lightning speed. Unreal strength.

Happy Birthday to Mr. All-Purpose @DarrenSproles 🔥 https://t.co/4xZfbwsUMi

— NFL (@NFL) June 20, 2019

Sproles established himself as one of the premier pass catching running backs in football, and has amassed over 8000 yards from scrimmage in his career, with nearly 5000 of those coming in the air. Sproles is a three time Pro Bowl selection, and has made a strong case to be the first Wildcat ever in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. 

Let's throw it wayyy back!! #TBT #wildcats pic.twitter.com/dImgDPlfa3

— Darren Sproles (@DarrenSproles) March 28, 2019