The Chris Klieman era is over in Manhattan as Collin Klein comes on as the former offensive coordinator at Texas A&M to lead the Wildcats in 2026. A bright spot for Kansas State was quarterback Avery Johnson’s decision to stay put. Johnson has 48 career touchdown passes and is a true dual threat. Top running back Joe Jackson returns with Oklahoma State transfer Rodney Fields. The Wildcats return five of their top eight pass catchers from a season ago, including top producer Jaron Tibbs. Tight end Garret Oakley remains on the roster, leading the team in career catches and touchdowns. The Wildcats’ offensive line lost four of five starters from a year ago, and it will be up to their progress whether the offense moves the ball well.

Defensive coordinator Jordan Peterson followed head coach Klein over from the Texas A&M Aggies and will look to rebuild a Kansas State defense that lost its top three tacklers from a season ago. The Wildcats’ secondary has a veteran presence to it with Zashon Rich and Donovan McIntosh returning. Kansas State is excited for Virginia transfer Ja’Son Prevard to take the field and has high hopes for one of the best JUCO prospects in Michael Graham. The front seven will be a work in progress as they welcome in new starters.

The special teams return placekicker Luis Rodriguez, Punter Simon McClannan, punt returner Sterling Lockett, and had the 4-for-4 sweep going with kick returner Bryce Noernberg returning until he decided to leave the program in May. Kansas State has plenty of individual talent, but its bowl hopes will be determined by the big men in the trenches and their ability to protect and get after the quarterback.