After the transfer portal window, Kansas State football was in a tough spot. Losing many stars
However, the narrative is starting to shift slightly. Several media outlets are starting to buy into the Wildcats for next season, with Collin Klein's return creating some optimism for the program to win again. ESPN was the latest, which isn't a surprise considering their general history of supporting Kansas State. They believe Klein's coaching of quarterback Avery Johnson again will help the veteran soar in his final season.
"[Collin] Klein is getting another chance to coach quarterback Avery Johnson, the Wildcats' 26-game starter, and should have enough weapons on offense with the return of Joe Jackson and Jaron Tibbs, plus the additions of new playmakers Manning, Izaiah Williams, Rodney Fields Jr., and Jay Harris," the article wrote.
They also point to the defense, as the team returns multiple high-level starters, while adding playmakers on the edge in Elijah Hill and Wendell Gregory.
"[Wendell] Gregory was the Big 12's Defensive Freshman of the Year last season at Oklahoma State, and Hill earned first-team All-Conference USA honors as a freshman at Kennesaw State," the article wrote. "They give this defense two high-upside pass rushers to pair with Travis Bates and Jordan Allen, and their secondary does have some experience to build on with returning starters Zashon Rich, Donovan McIntosh, and Wesley Fair, as well as veteran additions Kaleb Patterson, Ja'Son Prevard, and Adrian Maddox."
Still, they acknowledge the obstacles that come with losing so many big names to other teams over the past few weeks.
"The Wildcats lost many prominent starters to the portal," the article wrote. "Osunsanmi and fellow defensive lineman Chiddi Obiazor joined Indiana, Romaine transferred to Texas Tech, receiver Jayce Brown went to LSU, and four defenders followed DC Joe Klanderman to Baylor. Klein and his new staff had a lot of work to do to reload along the offensive and defensive lines and ended up with only six returning players who started nine or more games for last season's squad."
Nevertheless, the program can go in either direction. Such a legendary figure being back at the top gives hope, but such massive roster changes can easily sway it the other way.
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