Jul 21, 2026 5:00 PM

Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson could be one of the athletes eligible for a fifth year under the new NCAA rule

It's kind of hard for Kansas State Wildcats quarterback Avery Johnson to think about playing another season of college football in 2027. 

Right now, he's focused on the task at hand, which is winning this season. Still, Johnson couldn't help but think about the new NCAA rules that would allow him to return for a fifth season if needed. 

"I think if I needed another year to play college football, it's something I'd look into," Johnson said earlier this month at Big 12 Media Days in Frisco, Texas. "It's not something I've talked to my family about or even something I've thought of this year. I'm kinda more focused on the season. It's time to see how this season goes; I'm looking forward to the season, and that's something that I think we'll all just deal with after."

In June, the NCAA implemented a rule change that allows athletes to compete for up to five years. Johnson is entering his senior season, his third as the full-time starter. Last season he led the Wildcats to a 6-6 record but the team declined a bowl invitation. He threw for 2,385 yards and 18 touchdowns while rushing for 477 yards and eight touchdowns. 

A four-star recruit coming out of high school, the hope is Johnson has a breakout season and move onto the NFL instead of considering another year in Manhattan. 

K-STATE  SCHEDULE RELEASED 

Wildcats coach Casey Alexander is set to begin his first season in Manhattan. On Monday, the non-conference schedule was released. 

Here's the full schedule: 

2026-27 Non-Conference Schedule

Oct. 23: Missouri (exhibition)

Nov. 3: South Dakota State

Nov. 6: Cal State Northridge

Nov. 10: Creighton 

Nov. 16: Montana

Nov. 20: Campbell 

Nov. 24: Gonzaga

Nov. 26: vs. Alabama/Baylor

Nov. 27:  vs. TBD

Nov. 28: Championship game 

Dec. 4: at Seton Hall 

Dec. 8: IU-Indy 

Dec. 11: Wichita State

Dec. 18: Little Rock 

Dec. 21: Lindenwood

Dec. 28: Omaha 

MORE K-STATE NEWS 

Can DJ Giddens fill the Colts' needs at running back? 

Kansas State gives offer to three-star basketball player 

K-State baseball grabs top pitcher from transfer portal 

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Shandel Richardson is the publisher of KStateRoundtable. He can be reached at [email protected]

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