Manhattan, Kansas – Kansas State University confirmed that former Wildcats quarterback Collin Klein has been appointed head football coach, succeeding Chris Klieman, who retired after seven seasons that included six bowl appearances.
Klein, a Heisman Trophy finalist during his playing days, returned to Manhattan after serving as offensive coordinator at Texas A&M. He said, “This is home for me. It’s a dream come true,” and expressed gratitude to the university administration, players, and staff for their support during the transition.
Coaching background and expectations
Klieman’s tenure ended with a 6-6 record in the 2025 season, a year that featured a loss to Iowa State in Ireland, a narrow win over North Dakota, and defeats by Army and Arizona. While the record fell short of expectations, Klieman guided the Wildcats to six bowl games in seven years, a notable achievement for the program.
University officials expect Klein’s deep ties to the campus and his reputation for connecting with players and fans to ease the change. The administration highlighted Klein’s familiarity with the program’s culture and his ability to recruit and develop talent.
Key returning players and new additions
Quarterback Avery Johnson returns to the roster, bringing his dual‑threat skill set that once made him a fan favorite. Klein’s own experience as a dual‑threat quarterback is expected to help Johnson reach his full potential.
Running back Joe Jackson, who excelled last season, remains a core part of the offense. The Wildcats also added several transfers, including wide receivers Josh Manning from Missouri and Izaiah Williams from Texas A&M, as well as offensive lineman Tanner Morley from Colorado State.
Defensive outlook
Defensively, Kansas State hired Jordan Peterson as defensive coordinator. Peterson spent the past two seasons as co‑defensive coordinator at Texas A&M and is tasked with improving a unit that allowed nearly 400 yards and more than 26 points per game in 2025.
While edge rushers Tobi Osunsanmi and Chiddi Obiazor transferred to Indiana, the Wildcats secured the commitment of Oklahoma State’s Wendell Gregory, a highly regarded edge prospect, and added Kennesaw State transfer Elijah Hill to bolster the front seven.
In the secondary, standout Zashon Rich returns after a breakout season, and the team welcomes transfers Ja’Son Prevard from Virginia and Kaleb Patterson from Illinois, with freshman Josiah Vilmael also competing for playing time.
Schedule and outlook
The 2026 schedule is considered one of the easier in the Big 12, featuring non‑conference games against Nicholls, Washington State and Tulane, and no matchups against Texas Tech or BYU in league play. Analysts suggest the Wildcats could contend for the conference championship if they capitalize on the favorable slate and the new coaching staff’s impact.
Key upcoming games include a home matchup against Kansas on Oct. 17, a road game at Arizona on Nov. 21, and a final regular‑season contest at Iowa State on Nov. 28.
Klein’s appointment marks a new chapter for Kansas State football, blending a familiar face with fresh strategic direction as the program seeks to return to the upper tier of the Big 12.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
