Kansas State coach Collin Klein hit the ground running since returning to Manhattan, KS, reinstating that feeling of hope and optimism that flowed through Wildcats fans when he was under center and on the sidelines.
And that's already starting to pour into the players within the program. Josiah Vilmael, a three-star cornerback from Richmond, TX, was the first recruit under Collin Klein. He committed to the program on Dec. 5, and Klein's messages are already sparking within him.
"I already know Coach Klein is gonna come in and set a high bar," Vilmael said in an interview with KStateRoundtable. Especially because of what he’s done there. For me, it’s just about bringing that discipline, helping the guys around me, and being able to take constructive criticism from teammates."
Vilmael's initial conversation with Klein solidified his decision to choose Manhattan, KS, over Arizona, Texas, and Baylor. He believes Klein can help revamp a team seeking redemption after a disappointing 2025 campaign. The Wildcats finished with just six wins after being poised for a conference title and potential postseason spot.
"Expectation for sure next season is a bowl game," Vilmael said. "I think bowl game is on there every year, and just winning the Big 12. That's the biggest one, and then playoffs. He has a really good group to do it and I think he will."
Klein is already making his mark, making moves within the coaching staff and promising to relive the success he had within the program. Defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman and offensive coordinator Matt Wells have departed, with an influx of names reportedly on the way.
Players like Vilmael are an extension of the faith that director Gene Taylor and the fanbase has for Klein to deliver. He was an integral part of two of the program's three Big 12 championships, as the quarterback during his Heisman campaign in 2012 and then as the offensive coordinator in 2022.
So if there were anyone to potentially lead the team to its first playoff berth in school history, it would be him.
"You look at toughness, the mental and intestinal fortitude to play this game of football the way that it needs to be played, is different. That’s bred and will continue to be bred into every single Kansas State Wildcat. You talk about physicality. Some people like to visit physicality, we live there," Klein said in his opening press conference.
