Three Kansas State Wildcats Named To Preseason "Watch" Lists

They were three of the Kansas State Wildcats chosen to represent the school at Big 12 Media Days last month in Frisco, Texas, so naturally Joe Jackson, Avery Johnson and John Pastore are getting some preseason love. 

All three made the cut for the national award "Watch" list at their respective positions. A senior quarterback, Johnson and Jackson (running back) were both on the Maxwell Award list. The honor is given annually to the nation's most outstanding player. Pastore was on the Outland Trophy list, which is reserved for the best offensive lineman in the country. 

All eyes will be on these in leading the Wildcats' offense this season. They are especially important considering this is Collin Klein's first year in charge of the program after serving as the offensive coordinator for Texas A & M the past two seasons. 

Johnson is perhaps under the most pressure of the group. After a solid sophomore season, he took somewhat of a step back last year as a junior. This is his last chance to live up to being one of the highest-rated players in program history. He was a four-star recruit coming out of Maize High School. 

MEET AND GREET SET 

This is perhaps the most anticipated football season for the Kansas State Wildcats in recent years. 

It marks the first year of the coach Collin Klein era. He replaced the successful Chris Klieman, who resigned unexpectedly following last year's 6-6 finish. A former Wildcats star, Klein has hopes of making them once again a contender in the Big 12 conference. 

And fans can have their to meet Klein and the players Aug. 22 at the annual "Meet the Cats" event at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Gates open at 11 a.m.

Klein and players will be available for autographs. So will the men's and women's basketball teams, which start their seasons in November. 

MORE K-STATE NEWS 

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A wide open Big 12 may make things more manageable for Kansas State

Kansas State chasing 2028 offensive lineman recruit 

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