Collin Klein continues to shape his first coaching staff at Kansas State, adding another assistant with extensive Big 12 experience.
The program announced the hiring of Cory Patterson as running backs coach. Patterson joins the Wildcats after spending last season at Oklahoma State and brings previous coaching stops at Illinois and Purdue.
“I’m excited about the chance to build something special at K-State,” Patterson said in a statement. “There’s a strong tradition of elite running back play here, and our job is to keep that standard moving forward.
Before entering the college ranks, Patterson built a successful résumé at the high school level in the St. Louis area. He coached at Christian Brothers College High School before taking over as head coach at Trinity Catholic, where he led the program to a state championship. Those longstanding recruiting ties in St. Louis are expected to be a key asset for Klein and the Wildcats.
Klein praised Patterson’s ability to develop players and connect with those around him.
“Coach Patterson has a proven track record of developing talent,” Klein said. “His energy and passion for people stand out, and he fits perfectly with where we want to go offensively.”
At Illinois, Patterson coached Chase Brown, one of the most productive running backs in school history. Brown rushed for a combined 2,648 yards and 15 touchdowns during the 2021 and 2022 seasons before being selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2023 NFL Draft. Brown is currently the Bengals’ starting running back.
Most recently at Oklahoma State, Patterson helped guide a running backs group that combined for 1,172 rushing yards and six touchdowns during the 2025 season.
Kansas State has now announced eight assistant coaching hires since Klein was named head coach earlier this month, with more additions expected. The school also confirmed the hiring of Jeremy Jacobs as director of strength and conditioning.
“Jeremy is one of the top strength coaches in the country,” Klein said. “He’s a strong leader who sets the tone and helps build the culture we want at K-State.
Brian Lepak is also expected to remain on staff in an offensive position-coaching role as the Wildcats continue finalizing their coaching lineup.
