1 DAY TO KICKOFF: Dalton Converse

#46 Dalton Converse True Freshman 5-11 | 230 Clay Center, Kan. Bio

Position: Long Snapper Previous College: None Projection: Redshirt Status: Walk-On

Dalton Converse is walking on as both a linebacker and a long snapper, but the latter position is where I'll list him since we probably have a slightly greater need there, especially if neither Marcus Heit nor Chandler Smith pan out.

He did play in this year's Kansas Shrine Bowl as a linebacker, though, so it's not as if he's a slouch at that position.

Rubio Longsnapping rated him as a 3.5-star long snapper. At first, he was getting by on brute strength, but he's apparently really refined his technique, and it's made him even faster and more accurate. But I still expect a redshirt.

P.S. Although No. 1 is not a retired number like No. 11, Bill Snyder has shown no propensity to award it since returning as K-State coach. Hence, the need for a "catchup" player in the final countdown post of 2011.

Given the number's connotation, I won't be surprised if Josh Freeman is the last Cat to wear it for a good long while.