Chris Klieman, the former head coach of Kansas State football, is stepping back into the Wildcats' world, but this time with a twist. After announcing his departure as head coach on December 3, 2025, Klieman is returning as an athletics consultant ahead of the 2026 season.
Klieman, who first took the reins in 2018, left an indelible mark on the program over his seven-year tenure, finishing with a respectable 54-34 record. His journey with the Wildcats was filled with highs and lows, including a heart-wrenching 51-47 loss to Utah last season that left him visibly emotional. This loss, with its potential bowl implications, was a tough pill to swallow for a coach who deeply cares for his team.
Now, in a surprising turn of events, Klieman is back, not on the sidelines, but in a role that could greatly benefit the team. Reports suggest he will serve as a consultant to Athletics Director Gene Taylor, with a temporary contract worth $500,000 over eight months. His insights and experience will also be invaluable to first-year head coach Collin Klein.
Klein, who worked under Klieman from 2019 to 2023 as a quarterbacks coach and later as an offensive coordinator, is no stranger to the Wildcats. After a stint as the quarterbacks coach at Texas A&M, Klein returns to Kansas State with the opportunity to lean on Klieman’s wealth of knowledge.
While Klieman’s new role doesn’t involve making roster decisions or setting depth charts, his presence brings a sense of continuity. Former players familiar with his leadership will likely find comfort in his return, providing stability amidst the changes of a new coaching staff.
This strategic move has the potential to inject motivation and fresh perspectives into the program. As Klein navigates his first year as head coach, having Klieman as a resource could prove crucial in overcoming any hurdles that arise.