Kansas State legend Collin Klein is coming house.
Klein, a 2012 Heisman Trophy finalist at quarterback for the Wildcats and a former Kansas State assistant, was named the crew’s head coach on Thursday evening, receiving a five-year contract that averages $4.3 million yearly.
Klein, who’s in his second season as Texas A&M’s offensive coordinator, shall be launched Friday afternoon at Kansas State. He’s anticipated to stay with No. 7 Texas A&M by means of the upcoming Faculty Soccer Playoff.
Klein will take over for Chris Klieman, who introduced his retirement Wednesday after seven seasons, which included a Huge 12 title in 2022.
“We’re excited to welcome one in every of our all-time greats again house to Manhattan,” Kansas State athletic director Gene Taylor mentioned in an announcement. “Collin is an incredible chief who cares deeply about his gamers. The grit, toughness and aggression he displayed as a participant nonetheless fuels him at present as a coach, and he’s decided to hold on the super success this program has achieved.”
Klein’s return had been broadly anticipated since information leaked about Klieman’s retirement. Requested Wednesday about Klein as a alternative candidate, Taylor deadpanned, “I am not even positive if I nonetheless have his [phone] quantity.”
A Ring of Honor member who led Kansas State to a 21-5 report because the beginning quarterback in 2011 and 2012, Klein will change into the primary Kansas State alum to steer this system since Ellis Rainsberger from 1975 to 1977. Klein spent 2017 to 2023 as a Wildcats assistant, and the crew went 19-8 with him as offensive coordinator.
He left for Texas A&M and has helped the crew to an 11-1 regular-season report. He additionally was named a semifinalist for the Broyles Award, given to the nation’s high assistant.
“My household and I couldn’t be extra grateful for the chance to return house,” Klein mentioned in an announcement. “Thanks to President [Richard] Linton and Gene Taylor for believing in us to steer the Cats into a brand new period. The place of head coach at Kansas State has a protracted legacy of service, laborious work, dedication, and aggressive greatness that I’m honored to hold ahead.”
Kansas State completed the common season at 6-6. Whereas it is doable the crew opts out of a bowl invitation, no resolution has been finalized, sources advised ESPN.