Kansas State just secured one of its most important wins of the offseason-and it didn’t come from a flashy signing day surprise or a high-profile portal pickup. This one came from within.
Joe Jackson, the Wildcats’ breakout star at running back, announced he’s returning for the 2026 season. And he did it in his own way, via a YouTube video with Derek Richards, leaving no doubt about where his heart-and his feet-are planted.
Make no mistake: this is a big-time development for K-State. Jackson wasn’t just a contributor in 2025-he was the guy.
After Dylan Edwards left the program midseason, Jackson stepped into the spotlight and didn’t just carry the load-he ran with it. Literally.
His late-season surge was electric, capped off by a jaw-dropping 296-yard performance against No. 12 Utah.
That wasn’t just a good game-it was a record-breaker, setting the new single-game rushing mark in Kansas State history.
So when a player like that says he’s staying-especially in today’s college football landscape, where the transfer portal often turns into a bidding war-it sends a message. Jackson had every reason to explore his options.
He could’ve tested the waters, chased NIL deals, or followed the coaching carousel to a new opportunity. Instead, he doubled down on Manhattan.
That’s not just loyalty-it’s leadership.
And for new head coach Collin Klein, this is a foundational moment. In a time when programs are scrambling to hold onto talent, Klein’s first big win isn’t about who he brought in-it’s about who he kept.
Jackson’s return gives the Wildcats a proven playmaker, a tone-setter, and a locker room anchor. This isn’t just a boost to the running back room-it’s a signal to the entire roster and every recruit watching from afar: Kansas State isn’t starting over.
They’re building forward.
Keeping a player like Jackson isn’t just about stats or highlight reels-it’s about culture. It’s about showing that K-State is a place where stars can shine, grow, and want to stay.
That kind of retention is as valuable as any five-star signing. And with Jackson leading the charge, the Wildcats are making it clear: they’re not rebuilding-they’re reloading.