Kansas State Wildcats

Kansas State enters 2026 with first-time head coach Collin Klein, a former Wildcats quarterback and Heisman contender, taking over in Manhattan. Klein inherits a roster that lost most of its defensive starters and several offensive linemen to the portal, forcing heavy reliance on transfers. The offense, led by senior quarterback Avery Johnson, should be competitive in the Big 12, but the defense has major question marks, especially against the run. Fans should temper expectations for an immediate conference title run, but Klein's familiarity with the program and his offensive acumen provide reason for optimism.

Avery Johnson returns for his senior season as the school's single-season and career co-leader in touchdown passes, but his 2025 campaign was underwhelming, partly due to his third offensive coordinator in three years and missing key weapons. Reuniting with Klein, who was his offensive coordinator in 2022, should help Johnson rediscover his form. His dual-threat ability, which improved when he ran more last season, will be central to the offense's success. The supporting cast includes running back Joe Jackson, who set a school record with 293 rushing yards against Utah, and transfer Rodney Fields Jr. from Oklahoma State, giving the Wildcats a solid backfield duo.

The offensive line is the biggest concern on offense after losing most starters, with the team turning to the portal for reinforcements. If the line gels, the skill positions have potential: Jaron Tibbs steps up as the top receiver after a strong 2025 as WR2, with transfers Josh Manning and Izaiah Williams adding depth. Former 5-star recruit Linkon Cure could be an X-factor as a tight end or split out wide. The offense's identity, whether power run with two tight ends or spread with 11 personnel, remains to be seen under Klein, but the pieces are there for a balanced attack.

The defense lost nearly all starters from 2025, prompting a portal-heavy rebuild focused on defensive end and safety. Wendell Gregory, the sixth-ranked edge defender in the portal, and Elijah Hill, a prolific pressure-applier, are critical to the pass rush. At corner, Zashon Rich and Donovan McIntosh return to anchor the secondary. The biggest uncertainty is stopping the run, as the new-look front seven must prove it can hold up. If the pass rush and coverage hold, the defense could surprise, but run defense is the Achilles' heel.

Special teams have declined over the past few seasons, with net punting ranking in the bottom half of the Big 12 for three straight years. Bryce Noernberg provides a spark as a kick returner but had fumbling issues in 2025. Placekicking is solid, but winning the field position battle through punting will be crucial for a team that may rely on its defense to hold leads. Improving special teams could be a hidden key to exceeding expectations in Klein's first season.