As Kansas State attempts to rebound from last season's six-win disappointment, the task will be even harder this time around. The transfer portal season was difficult for the Wildcats, as several of their stars departed, whether for greener pastures elsewhere or the sudden retirement of veteran head coach Chris Klieman.
It was a notably lackluster window in Manhattan, KS, as the team lost big names and failed to add major players in return. The Athletic rated every Big 12 team based on their transfer portal window, giving the Wildcats a D+. The only teams rated worse than them were Baylor, Cincinnati, and Iowa State.
The article wrote:
"New coach Collin Klein has to replace 14 starters from last year’s team, including six who left via the portal and signed with other Power 4 programs. Klein did manage to retain nine starters, notably quarterback Avery Johnson, leading rusher Joe Jackson, and team leader in catches Jaron Tibbs. K-State signed 14 transfers who played 200-plus snaps last season, including five starters from other FBS programs. Two areas addressed with big numbers were the offensive and defensive lines, each with six additions. Gregory, who produced 32 pressures and four sacks last season at Oklahoma State, is the headliner of the group."
The major outlet did laud a few of their additions, like wide receiver Joshua Manning (Missouri), edge rusher Wendell Gregory (Oklahoma State), and linebacker Mekhi Mason (Louisiana Tech). Still, most generally agree that Kansas State lost this battle.
Losing your best wide receiver, top edge rushers, and five leaders in tackles for loss are not easy replacements. The Wildcats acquired some solid depth and even potential star pieces, but not enough to think they'll compete in the conference next season. This will likely force Kansas State to lean into its recruiting class to develop the next program stars.
As the main play-caller, head coach Collin Klein will likely revert to a heavy rushing attack with quarterback Avery Johnson getting out in space, while utilizing Joe Jackson, Jay Harris, and Rodney Fields Jr. as a potential three-headed monster in the backfield. Klein made some major defensive additions to complement his offensive mind on the other side of the field. The Wildcats had one of the Big 12's worst defenses to start last season.
JOIN THE COMMUNITY
Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members. Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!