Kansas State Tabs Jordan Peterson as Defensive Coordinator, Bringing SEC Pedigree and Big 12 Familiarity
MANHATTAN - Collin Klein’s first major move as Kansas State’s head coach is a big one - and it’s all about defense. The Wildcats have hired Jordan Peterson, a rising name in coaching circles, as their new defensive coordinator. Peterson comes to Manhattan from Texas A&M, where he spent the last two seasons as co-defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach under Mike Elko.
This isn’t just a hire - it’s a statement. Peterson brings with him a blend of SEC-caliber defensive success and a strong familiarity with Big 12 territory. And for a Kansas State program looking to maintain its defensive identity while evolving under new leadership, that’s a combination that checks all the right boxes.
“I am extremely excited to accept this position at Kansas State and join Coach Klein and the Wildcat program,” Peterson said. “Kansas State is a special place with a proud football tradition. My family and I are looking forward to the opportunity to return to the great state of Kansas and lead the K-State defense.”
Peterson steps into the role vacated by Joe Klanderman, who left to become the defensive coordinator at Baylor. And while replacing a respected voice on that side of the ball is no small task, Peterson’s résumé suggests he’s more than ready for the challenge.
Proven Track Record at Texas A&M
Let’s talk numbers. In 2023, Texas A&M’s defense - with Peterson helping call the shots - ranked No. 19 nationally in total yards allowed, holding opponents to just 309.8 yards per game.
But where the Aggies really made their mark was on third down. They led the nation in third-down defense, a testament to both scheme and execution.
Their pass defense was just as impressive. A&M allowed only 182.8 passing yards per game and 14.1 yards per completion - both among the best in the country. That kind of efficiency in the secondary doesn’t happen by accident, and it speaks directly to Peterson’s impact with the defensive backs.
Big 12 Roots Run Deep
While Peterson made a name for himself in the SEC, he’s no stranger to the Big 12 or the state of Kansas. From 2020 to 2023, he was on staff at the University of Kansas, where he worked under Lance Leipold in a variety of roles. Most recently, he served as the Jayhawks’ defensive pass game coordinator and defensive backs coach.
His work there paid dividends. Kansas saw four defensive backs earn All-Big 12 honors under Peterson’s guidance, including standout corner Cobee Bryant, who earned first-team All-Big 12 recognition twice. That kind of player development - especially in a conference known for high-powered passing attacks - is exactly what Kansas State needs as it looks to reload and retool its defense.
A Leader with a Vision
Collin Klein didn’t hold back in his praise of Peterson, calling him “the entire package.”
“Jordan is the entire package - an elite strategist and recruiter, and he develops relationships with his players,” Klein said. “His players play incredibly hard for him and continually get better. I am excited for him to be the leader of our defense.”
That combination of tactical acumen, recruiting chops, and player development is what programs look for in a modern coordinator. And for Klein, who’s assembling his first staff as a head coach, nailing this hire was crucial.
A Coaching Journey Built on Defense
Peterson’s coaching career has taken him across the country, with stops that have sharpened his defensive philosophy. Before his time at Kansas and Texas A&M, he spent three seasons at New Mexico, including a stint as the Lobos’ defensive coordinator in 2019. He also coached at Fresno State from 2012 to 2016, gaining valuable experience at the FBS level.
Now, he brings that full résumé to Manhattan - and he does so with a clear goal: build a defense that can not only compete in the Big 12 but set the tone.
With Peterson in charge of the defense and Klein leading the program, Kansas State is beginning to shape its identity for the next era. And if Peterson’s track record is any indication, the Wildcats’ defense is in very good hands.