Kansas Signee Nick Plato

Nick Plato, Scout.com three-star tight end from Edwardsville, (Ill.), faxed in his signed letter of intent and is officially a Jayhawk.

Nick Plato, 6-6, 228-pound tight end

Stats: Five receptions for 94 yards on offense and 30 tackles, two sacks, and a blocked field goal attempt on defense. Jersey No.82

Accolades: Team captain, first-team All-Southwestern Conference, first-team All-Area.

Strengths: “I think I’m a good blocker and can create holes for the running backs. I can lock up on defenders and make room for plays to happen. I worked hard this past off-season and developed my receiving skills as well.”

Needs work: “Speed is the big difference between high school and college, so I’m going to work hard on improving my speed and getting stronger.”

Additional facts: Three-year letterman, 3.0 GPA, 18 ACT, major undecided.

Plato was born 11/28/88 and son of Ron and Lisa Plato.

Recruiting coach: “Coach Ed Warinner recruited me for Kansas. We developed a really good relationship, and I like him a lot. He was at Illinois before, and he took my name with him when he came to Kansas. We talk a lot about things besides football and get along well.”

Expect to redshirt?: "I’m a big competitor, and there’s never been any talk about redshirting. The coaches have told me they plan on using me next season as long as I come in, work hard, and learn the offense.”

Why KU?: “I really like the area. I grew up a fan of the basketball team, and the football program wasn’t very good then. But they have turned things around, and they are on track to do big things."

"When I went on my visit, I fell in love with the people there, and it’s a great place. The strength and conditioning coach worked with the Cowboys, so he can help get me to the NFL. I’ll also have the chance to play with Todd Reesing for two years. I have several friends who go to Kansas, and I also have family in the area.”