Under the leadership of head coach Chris Klieman, Kansas State football has developed a strong reputation for player retention. While the Wildcats, like all programs, experience some losses to the transfer portal each year, they’ve consistently managed to keep the majority of their top talent in Manhattan until players either go pro or exhaust their eligibility. This trend continued during the most recent transfer window (April 16–25), with only one notable departure — former four-star recruit Noah King.
In an era where retaining elite players in the Big 12 has become increasingly difficult, K-State’s stability stands out. According to Klieman, it all comes down to strong relationships, focused player development, and an environment built for growth. He credited the program’s investment in areas like nutrition, strength training, recovery, and athletic support, which he believes rival any in college football. Players recognize and trust in that commitment, Klieman said at a recent press conference.
With 107 players currently on the roster, Klieman is optimistic about the team heading into the 2025 season, especially as the Wildcats aim for a potential College Football Playoff berth. A key component of their success lies in the culture within the locker room and the honest, ongoing conversations between coaches and players. The program’s NIL strategy also plays a role — K-State focuses its financial resources on rewarding returning talent like Avery Johnson, Dylan Edwards, and VJ Payne rather than chasing expensive transfers.
Helping to balance this approach is Clint Brown, the team’s director of roster management, who oversees NIL allocation and personnel priorities. The Wildcats have not only avoided significant roster loss but also brought in three promising additions from the portal. Klieman emphasized the value of transparency, explaining that players appreciate honesty about their roles and expectations.
Interestingly, Klieman also pointed to the relatively small size of the K-State football staff as an advantage. With fewer personnel involved, players interact more consistently with the same coaches and staff, which fosters deeper relationships. While other programs may employ dozens of analysts, Klieman believes this leaner structure contributes to the program’s tight-knit and trustworthy culture — a major factor in its roster stability.
