Defensive help was a must for Kansas State after the unit ranked last in the Big 12 this past season and forced the Wildcats to win shootouts, something they did roughly half the time during a 7-6 finish.

Immediate help was sought from the junior-college ranks, where Kansas State attracted two defensive linemen and three cornerbacks. In addition, Miami transfer Arthur Brown is expected to step in and compete at linebacker in 2011.

As usual, Kansas State coach Bill Snyder was cautious when appraising any of the players who signed as part of a class that totaled 32 players, with some coming in as greyshirts and others being Division I transfers. The class was ranked last by scouting services in the 10-team Big 12, but 13 of the prospects who were announced are already enrolled and will participate in spring practices.

Brown's brother, Bryce, fits into that category and will be another player who figures to help immediately at running back, following the departure of All-Big 12 rusher Daniel Thomas. Bryce Brown, who is from Wichita, Kan., was a five-star recruit in high school who originally signed with Tennessee.

"Bryce makes us faster," Snyder said of a quality he also hoped to add to his defense. "He is a talented young guy with instinct, which to have instinct at the position he plays is extremely important. He is going to be a good player."

Others in the class have impressive bloodlines. Justin Tuggle, a transfer quarterback who will participate in spring drills after playing juco ball for Blinn College, is the son of Jessie Tuggle, who logged 14 seasons in the NFL. Defensive end Ian Seau, another juco transfer, is the nephew of former NFL great Junior Seau. Defensive end Marquel Bryant is the cousin of Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant. And fullback Glenn Gronkowski is the brother of three current NFL players, Dan, Rob and Chris.

TOP OF THE CLASS

QB Justin Tuggle (Blinn CC, Alpharetta, Ga.) -- Will compete for a spot at quarterback after enrolling in time to participate in spring drills. Considered the No. 1 dual-threat quarterback among juco prospects. Originally played for Boston College, starting three games as a redshirt freshman in 2009.

DT Vaikalafi Lutui (Mt. San Antonio CC, Salt Lake City, Utah) -- Recorded 19.5 career tackles for loss among 63 tackles during his career at Mt. Sac, which began in 2008, was interrupted by an injury in 2009 and then continued in 2010. Will participate in spring camp.

CB Nigel Malone (City College of San Francisco CC, Manteca, Calif.) -- Another juco transfer who will participate in spring drills, Malone could be a playmaker after breaking up nine passes, with three interceptions, last season. Holds Sierra High School records for catches, receiving yards, interceptions and fumble recoveries.

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