Kansas State football stands on the edge of some big changes as the 2026 season creeps closer. It’ll be the first year with Collin Klein running the show.
The transfer portal opens January 2, and the Wildcats look ready for plenty of roster shakeups—players leaving, new faces coming in. They’re hoping these moves can push the team past that 6-6 finish in 2025, which, let’s be honest, left everyone a bit unsatisfied.
There’s a lot to watch: roster moves, player decisions, and some new strategies that could define the Wildcats’ next chapter.
Key Player Retention: Avery Johnson
Honestly, the most important thing this transfer cycle? Keeping Avery Johnson as the starting quarterback. His choice to stick around in Manhattan seems to depend a lot on how things go with Collin Klein, the new head coach.
Klein’s got a reputation for working wonders with quarterbacks, and folks see him as the right guy to help Johnson reach the next level. Johnson brings stability, and if he stays, that leadership really matters.
But to set him up for success, the Wildcats need to beef up the offensive line and find some fresh talent for the wide receiver room. The portal’s going to be busy.
Building the Offensive Line and Receiving Corps
Kansas State has to put real effort into the offensive line if they want Johnson to thrive. Without protection, even the best QB can’t do much.
They also need to find reliable wide receivers, which means hitting the transfer market hard over the next month. Maybe they’ll land a big name or two—who knows?
Defensive Focus: Enhancing the Pass Rush
The secondary? It looks solid enough. But the pass rush just hasn’t been there lately.
Kansas State plans to go after some difference-makers in that department during the transfer window. A real pass rusher could shake things up and get fans buzzing again.
Potential Additions from Texas A&M
With a handful of Aggies entering the portal, Kansas State might have an edge. Some coaches are making the move from College Station to Manhattan, which could help lure a few Texas A&M guys to the Wildcats’ defensive line.
Backfield Reinforcements
The backfield showed flashes late in 2025, especially when Joe Jackson broke out in those last two games. Still, adding another starting-level running back would give them more options and a little insurance.
Expect the Wildcats to look for that piece in the portal. Depth matters, especially with how unpredictable college football can get.
Returning Players
Sometimes, players dip their toes in the transfer portal and decide to stay put. Safety Qua Moss has hinted at coming back, and Donovan McIntosh already confirmed he’s sticking around after thinking about leaving.
Kansas State could still convince others—like Austin Romaine and Chiddi Obiazor—to return, which would help keep some experience on the roster.
Strategic Moves for Kansas State
So, what’s the game plan for the portal? Here are the big priorities:
- Keep Avery Johnson at quarterback.
- Strengthen the offensive line so Johnson isn’t running for his life.
- Reload the wide receiver group with dependable targets.
- Find a real pass rusher to amp up the defense.
- Add a starting-caliber running back for depth and flexibility.
- Convince key players to return if they’ve entered the portal.
Kansas State football’s stepping into a new era with Collin Klein at the helm. The next transfer portal cycle? It’s going to play a huge role in shaping what this team becomes.
The Wildcats want to keep their key players. They’re also zeroing in on strengthening both the offensive and defensive lines.
Adding depth to the backfield is high on their list, too. They’re hoping these moves will help build a stronger, more competitive roster for 2026.
If you’re curious and want more predictions about Kansas State’s transfer portal plans, check out the Topeka Capital-Journal.
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