Meet your 2019 recruit: James Gilbert, Running Back, Indiana - transfer from Ball State

James Gilbert is considered one of the top graduate transfers of this Spring's cycle - and will likely lead the backfield this Fall.

Of all of the moves that new head coach Chris Klieman has made since December, none has been more significant than the signing of graduate transfer James Gilbert. 

Gilbert comes to Kansas State from Ball State and from Indianapolis, Indiana originally. 

The 5'10" back led Ball State in rushes and touchdowns each of the last three seasons, and yards in each of the last two. 

✍️ James Gilbert from Ball State (transfer)

Bring on the 'Cats#KStateFB #EMAW19 pic.twitter.com/UwpY7XJkFc

— K-State Football (@KStateFB) December 19, 2018

Of Gilbert, Bring on the Cats says: "Gilbert brings a tough, inside running style to the field. He has excellent vision, solid feet and runs with an attitude. While he has suffered a couple injuries in his career, his major injury was a freak hand that shouldn’t hamper him at all now. Kansas State is getting a running back with plenty of tread left on his tires."

What you notice on film from Gilbert first and foremost is downhill speed. He's tough to catch once he reaches maximum acceleration - and he'll get plenty of opportunities in space while running in Manhattan. 

Meet James Gilbert, who left Ball State as its seventh all-time leading rusher. "For me, coming out of high school, I didn’t get a Power 5 offer, so this is my chance and only chance to prove to myself that I can play at this level. I’m excited.”https://t.co/0foElHU8Q9

— D. Scott Fritchen (@DScottFritchen) March 25, 2019