ESPN REPORT: Chris Klieman Stuns College Football World, Turns Down $7.5 Million Offer from Georgia, Notre Dame to Remain Kansas State Head Coach
In an era where money, power, and prestige often dictate the direction of college football careers, Chris Klieman has delivered a thunderous reminder that loyalty still matters. The Kansas State head coach has turned down a staggering $7.5 million annual offer from both Georgia and Notre Dame, two of the most iconic programs in college football history, choosing instead to remain in Manhattan as the leader of the Kansas State Wildcats.
The decision has rocked the college football world.
“This isn’t about money or headlines,” Klieman said in a press release. “This is about home, about purpose, and about building something meaningful with people I believe in. I have no plans beyond being the Kansas State head coach.”
Georgia and Notre Dame were reportedly engaged in a heated bidding war to lure Klieman away following his rapid success with the Wildcats. Under his leadership, Kansas State has developed into a disciplined, dangerous, and respected program in the Big 12, with a growing national profile and recruiting momentum. His teams play tough, physical football and have routinely outperformed expectations—hallmarks that made him an attractive candidate to both powerhouse schools.
But despite the allure of championship-ready rosters and unlimited resources, Klieman said “no.”
And not just no—a thunderous, definitive no.
College football insiders are calling it one of the boldest loyalty moves in recent memory. “We’ve seen coaches jump ship for far less,” said ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit. “For Klieman to reject two of the biggest brands in the sport and stay planted at Kansas State? That’s unheard of in today’s game. It tells you a lot about his character.”
Kansas State fans have erupted in celebration, flooding social media with messages of gratitude and pride. Wildcat students and alumni are calling Klieman a “legend in the making” and “the heart of the family.” His decision not only secures the program’s immediate future but also sends a powerful message to current and future recruits: Kansas State is a place worth believing in.
University athletic director Gene Taylor praised the move, stating, “Chris Klieman embodies everything we want this program to be. He’s committed to excellence, grounded in values, and driven by a desire to elevate our university every single day. We’re blessed to have him leading us.”
In a sport where loyalty is often overshadowed by million-dollar contracts and national championship dreams, Chris Klieman just redefined what it means to be a program builder—and a man of integrity.
With Klieman staying put, the Big 12 should brace for impact.
Because Kansas State isn’t just holding on to their coach—they’re holding on to a culture. And that culture is coming for the crown.
