What Can Kansas State QB Avery Johnson Do To Improve NFL Draft Hopes?

Quarterback Avery Johnson arrived at Kansas State in 2023 as one of the top high school players in the country. 

He was a four-star recruit coming out of Maize High School in Wichita. Fans viewed him as the next coming off Michael Bishop or Collin Klein, who are both among the most beloved players in program history. 

Johnson, who is entering his third season as the full-time starter, will eventually have to turn his attention to the NFL. As of now, he is considered an undrafted free agent prospect by moth draft experts. That can change if Johnson puts it all together as a senior. 

He patiently waited for his opportunity while playing behind Will Howard as a freshman. That chance came earlier than expected when Howard jumped in the transfer portal and headed to play for the Ohio State Buckeyes, where he won a national championship. 

Johnson appeared on pace to live up to the high expectations when he won the bowl game that season and then put up strong individual numbers in his first season as the full-time starter. 

Things have changed since undergoing a struggling 6-6 season that ended with coach Chris Klieman resigning. The best thing for Johnson is he still have plenty of time to make this work. 

A big season and team success could get his name back on the radar of NFL scouts. It helps that Klein, who recruited him to Kansas State, is now in charge. Their chemistry could lead to improvement that helps both of them in the future. 

WILDCATS WOMEN'S TEAM ADDS CENTER 

Last week it was announced the team signed center Tzoana Tampakou from Greece. The 6-foot-5 Tampakou played for Greece at the 2025 FIBA U20 Women's EuroBasket Division B. She averaged 6.0 points on a 50 percent shooting with 7.3 rebounds in seven games.  

"We are excited to add Tzoana for the upcoming year," Wildcats coach Jeff Mittie. "She is a true center that has excellent skill around the basket with both hands and a great feel for the pick and roll and high-low game."

MORE KANSAS STATE NEWS 

Ex-Kansas State basketball player getting some love at new school 

Former Wildcats running back is playing catch up for Indianapolis Colts 

What's the latest with ex-Wildcat QB now in the NFL 

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