The 2025 Kansas State Wildcats enter the season with a blend of cautious optimism and hardened grit, trademarks of the program under head coach Chris Klieman, now in his seventh year at the helm. After a 9–4 finish in 2024, the Wildcats retooled their roster with a mix of veteran leadership and promising young talent, aiming to contend in a revamped Big 12 that’s now a gauntlet of new-look powerhouses.
Coaching Staff & Philosophy
Klieman returns alongside offensive coordinator Collin Klein, whose up-tempo, hybrid spread scheme continues to evolve. Klein has worked to modernize the offense while keeping a physical edge — a trait reflective of K-State’s DNA. On the defensive side, Joe Klanderman resumes duties as defensive coordinator, anchoring a 3–3–5 system that hinges on versatility, disguise, and pressure. New additions to the staff include former Oregon State WR coach Kefense Hynson, who brings West Coast speed and recruiting chops.
Roster Overview
The post-Will Howard era begins at quarterback, with sophomore Avery Johnson set to take full command. Johnson, a dual-threat with elite athleticism, flashed brilliance in limited action last year, and he’s now surrounded by weapons built to capitalize on his mobility and arm strength.
In the backfield, junior tailback DJ Giddens returns after rushing for over 1,200 yards in 2024. True freshman phenom Treyvon Harrell, a four-star from Tulsa, may see early reps as a change-of-pace back. The offensive line features three returning starters, including All-Big 12 left tackle Andrew Leingang, anchoring a group that prides itself on toughness.
On defense, the Wildcats must replace key losses, including linebacker Austin Moore and defensive end Khalid Duke. However, linebacker Desmond Purnell returns to lead a defense that ranked third in the Big 12 in takeaways. Look for safety Kobe Savage, fully recovered from an ACL tear, to re-emerge as the emotional leader of the secondary.
Depth Charts (Projected)
Offense:
- QB: Avery Johnson
- RB: DJ Giddens / Treyvon Harrell
- WRs: Jayce Brown, Keagan Johnson, Andre Davis
- TE: Will Swanson
- OL: Leingang, Carver Willis, Hayden Gillum (C), Hadley Panzer, Christian Duffie
Defense:
- DL: Uso Seumalo, Damian Ilalio, Nate Matlack
- LB: Purnell, Jake Clifton, Gavin Fornelli
- CBs: Jacob Parrish, Jordan Allen
- S: Kobe Savage, VJ Payne, Marques Sigle
2025 Schedule Breakdown
Kansas State opens at home against North Dakota State in a storyline-rich Week 1 clash that pits Klieman against his former team. A road test at Arizona State looms in Week 2, followed by a gritty stretch of Big 12 matchups, including back-to-back games at Utah and home vs. TCU. October brings rivalry fireworks in the Sunflower Showdown against Kansas, while November features a potentially season-defining clash with Texas Tech in Lubbock.
The Wildcats’ ceiling in 2025 depends on Johnson’s development, the offensive line’s cohesion, and whether the defense can generate consistent pressure without last year’s veteran anchors. But with an experienced staff, a rising star under center, and a schedule with opportunities to prove themselves, the Wildcats could very well claw their way into Big 12 title contention.
