Kansas State football was thrust into the national spotlight Wednesday as longtime head coach Chris Klieman announced his retirement, sending shockwaves throughout Manhattan and across the college football landscape. What began as early-morning whispers quickly escalated into one of the most significant coaching developments of the 2025 cycle — and instantly put a familiar name atop the list of potential successors: former Wildcats quarterback and current Texas A&M offensive coordinator Collin Klein.
A Sudden Turn on a Landmark Day
The situation unfolded rapidly. Just after 8:30 a.m., the Manhattan Mercury first reported that Klieman was stepping down. Within hours, Kansas State delayed its National Signing Day press conference to 4 p.m. and scheduled a players-only meeting with Athletic Director Gene Taylor at 2 p.m., signaling the magnitude of the news.
Before stepping to the podium Wednesday afternoon, the Kansas State University Athletic Department released a personal statement from Klieman, who closes his Wildcats tenure as the second-winningest coach in program history with 54 victories over seven seasons.
“After many deep and thoughtful conversations with my family, we have decided that the time is right for me to retire from coaching,” Klieman said. “This decision was not taken lightly and was the culmination of many factors, including my own personal health. I absolutely love coaching football and helping these young men grow, but now is the time for me to step away and spend more time with Rhonda and our three kids.”
Klieman reflected on his journey at K-State, which included building a physical, disciplined brand of football and capturing the 2022 Big 12 Championship — a milestone he described as “one of the proudest accomplishments” of his coaching life.
Gene Taylor Voices Frustration With College Athletics
While Klieman offered a personal explanation for stepping away, Gene Taylor did not hold back when discussing the state of modern college athletics — and its impact on coaching stability.
“You just saw one of the greatest guys in this industry walk out of this room and retire from the business he loves,” Taylor said. “And it pisses me off because he’s doing it in part due to where this industry is right now. If we don’t get this under control, more really good men like Chris Klieman are going to leave this profession.”
Taylor emphasized that while he understood Klieman’s family-driven decision, the pressures of the rapidly shifting college football model — NIL, the transfer portal, and constant roster management — also played a role.
Klieman’s Legacy: A Proven Winner
Klieman exits with a 54-37 record at Kansas State, highlighted by the program’s Big 12 title in 2022. Before arriving in Manhattan, he built a dynasty at North Dakota State, winning four FCS national championships from 2014–2018.
His time at K-State cemented him as one of the program’s most successful leaders, following in the footsteps of Bill Snyder while ushering in a new era defined by toughness, development, and consistency.
All Eyes on Collin Klein
Even before Klieman finished his remarks, speculation swirled around one name: Collin Klein.
Despite early reports that Klein is the Wildcats’ preferred choice, Taylor stated at Wednesday’s press conference that no conversations have taken place regarding the vacancy. He also made it clear there is no fixed timeline — saying the decision could come “in two days or two months.”
But within the K-State community, the connection feels undeniable.
Klein, 36, currently serves as offensive coordinator at Texas A&M. Prior to that, he spent seven seasons on the K-State staff in roles including quarterbacks coach and co-offensive coordinator. He led the Wildcats’ offense during the 2022 and 2023 seasons before making the move to College Station.
A Beloved Wildcat With a Legendary Playing Career
Klein remains one of the most iconic players in the history of Kansas State football. Known for his physical running style, soft-spoken leadership, and unshakeable toughness, he finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting in 2012.
That season, Klein guided K-State to a 10–0 start and the No. 1 ranking in the BCS standings — the program’s first time atop the national polls since the Snyder era. Though the Wildcats stumbled late at Baylor, they rebounded to defeat Texas on Senior Night, clinching the Big 12 championship and a Fiesta Bowl berth.
In his final home game, Klein delivered one of the defining performances of his career: 184 passing yards, 103 rushing yards, and a night of pure command that left Texas defenders exhausted.
Former Texas head coach Mack Brown captured Klein’s value succinctly during that 2011 season:
“He’s their leader, their toughness, their heartbeat,” Brown said. “He can run power, he can run option — we knocked him around all night and he still found a way to win.”
From Player to Coaching Riser
Klein’s reputation as an offensive thinker began long before he started holding a clipboard. His football IQ and methodical preparation were widely recognized, and he ascended quickly through the coaching ranks.
He and his wife, former K-State women’s basketball standout Shalin Spani, are now raising four children — firmly tying their family story to Kansas State history.
What Comes Next for the Wildcats?
With Klieman officially stepping away, Kansas State now enters one of its most pivotal coaching searches in more than a decade. Taylor made clear that no decisions have been made, and the university will pursue the right fit — regardless of timeline.
Still, the momentum around Klein is unmistakable. To much of the fan base, the former Heisman finalist represents continuity, culture, and a return to the program’s core values.
But until conversations officially begin, the Wildcats remain in a moment of transition — honoring the legacy of a championship coach while preparing for what could be a new era led by one of their own.
