Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson is projected to have a breakout season in his final year in Manhattan, KS.
That's probably been the understatement of the spring ball season. Nearly every fan and analyst anticipates a rise for Johnson after a disappointing 2025 display. But most importantly, it's why so many have this vision in store for him: the return of Collin Klein. Klein was Johnson's first offensive coordinator and part of the fuel to his electric freshman season.
ESPN pinned Klein and Johnson as a "match made in heaven" in its Big 12 evaluations for next season.
"The first-year coach Klein was one of Johnson's primary recruiters out of high school before he left for the offensive coordinator job at Texas A&M," the article wrote. "After a disappointing season for Johnson, Klein will be a godsend for his development. Johnson failed to clear 60% completion in each of his first three seasons, but Klein will help show Johnson how to use his legs to create opportunities for his arm."
Johnson finished his first year under center with 479 passing yards and five touchdowns, while rushing for 296 yards and seven scores on the ground. All in just eight games of action while splitting reps with veteran Will Howard. Johnson's breakout Bowl performance against NC State was the final game to solidify his long-term future with the team.
Since Klein has left, it's been rough for Johnson. A dynamic freshman campaign created high expectations for the next two years, which were not met either season. In 2025, Johnson had just 2,385 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and six interceptions, rushing for 477 yards and eight touchdowns.
As Johnson enters his final year, Klein assures that this year will be a smoother transition with the two back together.
"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. Then allow him to cut it loose, play fast, and use that competitive nature."
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