Chris Klieman decided it was time to step away from coaching. The day after Kansas State’s final game of the season, and after discussing it with his family over the weekend, Klieman informed his boss that he needed a few days to finalize his decision. Ultimately, he made a phone call to Collin Klein, whom he had mentored and who was considered ready to take the next step as K-State’s new head coach.
Klieman officially announced his retirement the following Wednesday, with Klein introduced as his successor two days later. Reflecting on the transition, Klieman said it eased his mind knowing someone he trusted would continue to guide the program and energize the fan base.
The primary reason for Klieman’s departure, he explained, was the changing nature of college football. The combination of massive spending, players having agents, and unlimited transfer movement had turned recruiting and roster management into a high-stress, constant negotiation process. “I’d die if I kept doing this job,” he said. “If I kept doing this, I was gonna have a heart attack or a stroke. My blood pressure was through the roof.”
He cited a particularly frustrating episode in April when he cut 20 players due to a misunderstanding about roster limits, only to see the ruling reversed later. Despite these challenges, Klieman is proud of his accomplishments at K-State, including a Big 12 title, six bowl appearances, and maintaining a 17-year winning streak against Kansas.
Looking ahead, Klieman is not ruling out a future return to coaching under improved rules, though he sees little chance of systemic reform in the near term. For now, he and his wife are focusing on relaxing in Florida, with their long-term plans still open and influenced by their three grown children.
