Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson was anticipated to elevate his game in 2025, ascending to the next echelon of signal-callers in the Big 12 and across the country.
Well, that didn't come to fruition. He took a huge step back in his junior year, reducing him to a relatively average quarterback in many people's eyes. Johnson is seeing the effects of this in real time, including the latest CBS Sports article ranking all the Power conference starters. The popular site ranked the Wildcats quarterback No. 30, eighth among conference signal-callers.
"Since his coming-out party during a bowl win over NC State as a freshman in 2023, Johnson has accounted for 58 touchdowns over the last two seasons as the Wildcats' starter," the article wrote. "Despite those numbers, there's not much to show for it with a 15-10 record, including last fall's 6-6 finish that led to coach Chris Klieman's retirement. This is it for Johnson if he plans on showing NFL scouts he's a potential difference-maker at the next level as the face for a contender."
Last season, Johnson had 2,385 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and six interceptions, rushing for 477 yards and eight touchdowns. A decent statistical season, but nothing that convinced outsiders he was ready to rise in rank. Back-breaking turnovers, a failure to elevate his passing game, and a lack of rushing numbers to fuel his dual-threat play style. Some attribute his down year to lackluster offensive play-calling, but Johnson has his fair share of the blame as well.
Thankfully, his original offensive play-caller is back at the helm with him, allowing him to shine as he did in his freshman season. Amid all of Collin Klein's tasks, the biggest thing he's expected to do is help Johnson become a possible NFL-level prospect in his final collegiate season.
"We’re able to build off of a large part of the foundation that was here before," Klein said in his spring ball presser. "I think it gives us a chance for a good head start. I’m really excited about our ability to package things for him, get on the same page, and think the same way. Allow him to cut it loose, play fast, and use that competitive nature."
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