South Dakota, a state renowned for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, has once again found itself intertwined with the dynamic world of collegiate athletics. As North Dakota State University’s (NDSU) football team gears up for its promising future, it does so against the backdrop of a heartfelt commitment from Drew Kessel, a top-tier recruit and the younger brother of NDSU’s standout sophomore, Reis Kessel.
Drew Kessel, standing at an impressive 6-foot-7 and weighing 225 pounds, has accepted a position with NDSU’s Class of 2027. His dedication and talent were recognized widely, garnering offers from prestigious Big Ten schools, including Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, along with scholarships from Kansas State, West Virginia, and Iowa State. However, it was at NDSU that he found his allegiance, encouraged by a strong kinship and the promise of personal development.
“It’s my home team. I’ve always loved NDSU growing up,” expressed Kessel. “The coaches—Coach Dan Larson and Coach Tim Polasek—did an amazing job recruiting me, always texting and calling. With my brother, he got developed very well, and he’s doing amazing there.”
South Dakota plays a unique role in this narrative. Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium, situated in Brookings, South Dakota, witnesses the athletic prowess of the two brothers during their competitive journeys against local rival South Dakota State University. Drew’s older brother, Reis Kessel, already demonstrated his prowess on this field, earning a spot on the Missouri Valley All-Newcomer team with 15 receptions for 335 yards.
Reis, once a NDSU walk-on, sees his brother’s choice as both different and fortunate compared to his own journey. “His recruitment was the complete opposite of what I went through,” Reis mentioned. “It’s awesome to see him get these offers and looks. I hope he becomes a Bison.”
Drew Kessel’s high school career was marked by significant achievements, including a second-team all-state selection in 2025, with 38 receptions, 635 yards, and five touchdowns. Now, transferring to Moorhead for his final high school season, he is poised to join a formidable team alongside fellow talented players Jett Feeney, Taye Reich, Zak Walker, and David Mack, all committed to Minnesota.
The recruitment of Drew Kessel further amplifies the competitiveness of NDSU’s 2027 recruiting class, which boasts 19 committed recruits. Beyond Drew’s commitment, NDSU has successfully attracted wide receivers from Florida and Texas, as well as an Iowa defensive tackle, Lucas Diehl, underscoring the program’s broad geographic reach.
NDSU’s recruiting strategy is particularly intriguing considering the local talent potentially heading elsewhere. However, the relationship built by NDSU coaches with their recruits, Drew’s appreciation for the coaching staff’s effort, and his brother’s mentorship certainly played pivotal roles in his decision-making process.
Moreover, South Dakota’s own collegiate landscape holds its notes of significance. South Dakota State University, a formidable adversary on the gridiron, adds to the context in which these commitments occur. With schools across the Upper Midwest region—North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota—vying for athletic talent, the stakes continue to rise.
As Drew Kessel and the Class of 2027 look toward the next phase of their careers, the exquisite rivalry reflected in fields like Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium and the deep commitment to growth and excellence remain a testament to the sportsmanship and spirit that characterizes both Dakotas. The anticipation for the forthcoming seasons is palpable, with NDSU at the heart of a promising horizon.
South Dakota State University
The story of the Kessel brothers is not just one of sibling bond but also reflects the larger narrative of athletic aspirations in the dynamic landscape of American college football. As South Dakota, through its landmark venues, continues to play host to this thrilling play of athletic arts, everyone awaits how Drew Kessel will shape his legacy alongside his brother, Reis.
For more inquiries, contact info@ndsu-bison.com.