Cannon Zubeck’s recruitment still is in the early phase. The Shawnee Mission (KS) East High sophomore offensive lineman is soaking up the experience.

It took him to Iowa City this past Saturday, where he watched the Hawkeyes play host to Oregon in a Top 20 matchup. Despite a steady downpour, Kinnick Stadium remained rocking right up until the Ducks’ game-winning field goal in the closing seconds.

It was a true reflection of college football at its finest.

“I loved the fans and tradition, everybody tailgating and just bleeding yellow and black. As well as the tradition with the wave and chants, it was all electric and really cool experiences,” Zubeck said.

The 6-foot-7, 225-pounder said the Hawkeyes like his size and multi-sport background. He’s a first baseman and right-handed pitcher in baseball, and mans the post on the hoops team.

Football looks like his future, at least for now. He reports scholarship offers from Kansas and Kansas State on the gridiron. His athleticism and projectable frame are traits high on the list of Power 4 programs.

Zubeck likes what he sees from the Hawkeye offensive line. There’s a potential fit in that regard.

“Iowa runs a very-heavy, run-base offense from what it felt like I have watched. This benefits me because we run Wing-T (at Shawnee Mission East), and you have to be physical and get push for plays to work. So, that’s how I think my game could complement there offense,” he said.

The local Power 4 schools are a good fit, too. They’re all bonding.

“My relationship with K-State and KU is really good. K-State, I have had connections with for awhile and it as been amazing. KU, I have been getting to know everybody and growing our relationship. It is truly something amazing, and something I will continue doing,” he said.

Time is on Zubeck’s side when it comes to finding a college home. He’s only a few months into his second year of high school.

“I’m just gonna take my time and enjoy everything. Not everybody gets to have the opportunity I get to, so being grateful for the time I have and the time to come,” he said.

Shawnee Mission East lost a one-score heartbreaker in last Friday’s Kansas state playoffs. According to Max Preps, the Lancers averaged 302.6 yards (7.0 YPC) rushing with 34 touchdowns in 2025.