Manhattan HS football star to leave town, picks KU over K-State

MANHATTAN, Kan. (KWCH) - A junior on one of the state’s strongest programs will be taking his talents about 80 miles east into “enemy territory” after his high school career concludes next year. Manhattan High School standout JJ Dunnigan Jr., one of the best players on both sides of the ball in Class 6A announced his commitment to the University of Kansas on Thursday, picking the Jayhawks over staying in Manhattan to play for K-State, moving a couple hours up the road to play for Nebraska or heading to the west coast to play for Stanford.

In his junior campaign that concluded with a state runner-up finish for Manhattan, Dunnigan, a defensive back and wide receiver recorded 65 tackles, three interceptions and two forced fumbles on defense. On offense, he compiled more than 500 receiving yards and five touchdowns. He also shined on special teams with three returns for touchdowns.

Dunnigan was named the Centennial League Defensive Player of the Year and was First-Team All-League as a defensive back, wide receiver and returner.