collin Klein Named next Head Coach of Kansas State Football
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MANHATTAN – Collin Klein is officially coming home.
The former Kansas State star quarterback has been named the next head coach of his alma mater, the school announced on Thursday, Dec. 4.
Klein will replace Chris Klieman, who announced his retirement on Wednesday, Dec. 3. The coach departed after seven seasons, succeeding the legendary Bill Snyder.
Klein will be introduced to the public during a welcome event at Morgan Family Arena on Friday, Dec. 5,with doors opening at 3 p.m. and the ceremony starting at 4 p.m. It will also be streamed on ESPN+.
Klein, the 36th coach in Kansas State history, will have a five-year contract with an average base salary of $4.3 million.
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“My family and I coudl not be more grateful for the prospect to come home,” Klein said in a release. “Thank you to President Linton and Gene Taylor for believing in us to lead the Cats into a new era. The position of Head coach at Kansas State has a long legacy of service,hard work,determination,and competitive greatness that I am honored to carry forward. This is Family business, and we cannot wait to get to work!”
Jerrod Klein Returns to kansas State to Lead Wildcat Football Program
Jerrod Klein has been named the new head football coach at Kansas State University, returning to his alma mater with a mission to restore the program to its former glory within the Big 12 conference. The appointment fulfills a long-held dream for Klein and a significant portion of the K-State fanbase.
A Familiar Face Returns to Manhattan
Klein’s connection to Kansas State runs deep. He played football for the Wildcats and has consistently expressed his desire to lead the program.Beyond his athletic ties, his family history is intertwined with the university; his brother also attended K-State, and he met his wife, Shalin Spani, a former K-State basketball player, while in Manhattan. Together, they have four children. https://www.kstateonline.news/jerrod-klein-named-k-state-football-coach/
Coaching Background and Previous Success
Prior to returning to Kansas State, Klein served as the defensive line coach for the New Orleans Saints. He has a proven track record of developing successful defensive players. Before his NFL tenure,Klein held coaching positions at several collegiate programs,including Oklahoma State and Western Kentucky. https://kstatesports.com/news/2023/12/05/football-jerrod-klein-named-head-football-coach
Expectations and Challenges Ahead
Klein inherits a kansas State program that recently experienced success under former head coach Chris Klieman, including a big 12 Championship in 2022. However, the landscape of college football is rapidly changing with the introduction of the transfer portal and evolving conference alignments. Klein will be tasked with navigating these challenges while maintaining a competitive roster and recruiting effectively. The wildcats now compete in the Big 12 alongside BYU, Cincinnati, Houston, and UCF. Key Takeaways
* Family Ties: Klein’s deep personal connection to Kansas State makes this appointment notably meaningful.
* Defensive Expertise: he brings a strong background in defensive coaching, particularly with the defensive line.
* Big 12 Competition: Klein faces the challenge of maintaining competitiveness in a newly configured Big 12 Conference.
* Program Continuity: He aims to build upon the recent successes of the K-State football program.
Looking Ahead
The hiring of Jerrod Klein marks a new chapter for Kansas State football. His passion for the program, combined with his coaching experience, provides a foundation for optimism.The coming months will be crucial as he assembles his coaching staff and prepares for the challenges of the 2024 season and beyond.
Source: Wyatt D. Wheeler,USA TODAY Network and Topeka Capital-Journal. (https://www.kstateonline.news/jerrod-klein-named-k-state-football-coach/) and additional reporting from KStateSports.com and ESPN.