BY: KENNY VARNER
Kansas State Wildcats 2025 Season Preview
The Kansas State Wildcats enter the 2025 season with high aspirations and a legitimate shot at the Big 12 title. After a strong 7-1 start in 2024, the Wildcats faltered down the stretch, losing three of their last four games before ending the year on a high note with a bowl win to finish 9-4. This year’s squad returns plenty of talent, with six starters back on offense—including quarterback Avery Johnson—and five on defense. Head coach Chris Klieman, now in his sixth season, leads a disciplined and veteran-laden team that should be well-balanced on both sides of the ball.
Kansas State’s identity remains firmly rooted in the run game. The Wildcats rushed for 215 yards per game last season, averaging a robust 6.1 yards per carry. Establishing the ground game is critical to unlocking everything else in the offense, and while they lose standout running back DJ Giddens and his 1,343 rushing yards, the backfield remains in good shape. Joe Jackson and Dylan Edwards return after combining for 773 yards, and their speed and versatility should pair well with Johnson’s dual-threat ability.
Johnson is back under center after a solid campaign in which he threw for 2,712 yards and 25 touchdowns. He completed 58% of his passes, a number he’ll need to improve if K-State wants to make a serious push for the College Football Playoff. He also tossed 10 interceptions—a number he’ll look to reduce. On the ground, Johnson added 605 rushing yards on 5.4 yards per carry and scored 7 times, making him the second-leading rusher on the team.
Up front, the offensive line will have some retooling to do with only two returning starters: center Sam Hecht and guard Taylor Poitier. Still, the staff hit the transfer portal hard and landed some impressive pieces. JB Nelson (Penn State) and 375-pound guard Amos Talalele (USC) should step in immediately, while Terrence Enos (Pitt) and George Fitzpatrick (Ohio State) add valuable depth. If the line gels, this offense could again average over 30 points per game.
In the receiving corps, Jayce Brown returns as the top target after averaging 17 yards per catch, while tight end Garret Oakley provides a reliable safety valve. Kansas State added portal talent to bolster the unit, including Jerand Bradley (Boston College), Caleb Medford (New Mexico), and Purdue transfer Jaron Tibbs, a speedy deep threat who could stretch defenses right away. If the passing game can complement the run, this will be a dangerous offense.
Defensively, Kansas State boasted the No. 2 run defense in the Big 12 last year, and that group looks strong again. Defensive tackle Damian Ilalio anchors the interior, flanked by Travis Bates and Chiddi Obiazor. If Alabama transfer Jayshawn Ross makes an impact off the edge, this could be a special unit. Linebackers are a clear strength, led by Austin Romaine (96 tackles) and Desmond Purnell (9.5 tackles for loss, including 4 sacks). Gabe Powers (Ohio State) and Rex Van Wyhe provide quality depth.
The secondary is the biggest question mark. Veteran VJ Payne will be counted on to lead a retooled unit full of transfers. Gunner Maldonado (Arizona) is an intriguing pickup, having put together two solid seasons before missing last year. Amarion Fortenberry (South Alabama) is another name to watch as the Wildcats look to solidify the back end.
Kansas State opens its season with a high-profile matchup against Iowa State in Dublin, Ireland. Road trips to Utah and Baylor loom large, and the Big 12 features several improved teams. Still, if Avery Johnson takes a step forward, protects the football, and the offensive line comes together, the Wildcats have the foundation to not just reach the Big 12 Championship Game—but to make a real push for the College Football Playoff.