There’s a familiar thread running through Kansas State’s latest coaching hires - and it’s maroon and white. As Collin Klein settles into his new role as head coach in Manhattan, he’s bringing a bit of College Station with him.
Christian Ellsworth Named Quarterbacks Coach
Let’s start with the offensive side of the ball. Christian Ellsworth, who spent the 2024 season as Texas A&M’s tight ends coach and offensive analyst, is officially heading to Kansas State as the new quarterbacks coach. For Klein, this hire isn’t just about familiarity - it’s about trust and shared vision.
Ellsworth’s connection to Klein goes back years. He was a Kansas State graduate assistant from 2020 to 2021, working under Klein during that stint.
But their relationship started even earlier - back in 2016, when Ellsworth was a quarterback at Northern Iowa and Klein was his position coach. That kind of continuity matters, especially when you’re building a staff from the ground up.
Ellsworth’s recent work at A&M speaks for itself. Under his guidance, the Aggies’ tight ends were quietly productive - 43 catches, 435 yards, and four touchdowns this season.
But their impact went beyond the stat sheet. They were key contributors to a top-20 scoring offense and helped pave the way for a ground game that averaged nearly 185 rushing yards per outing.
That balance - efficient through the air and physical on the ground - is something Klein wants to replicate in Manhattan.
In a statement, Ellsworth called the opportunity to return to Kansas State “family business,” a nod to the deep-rooted ties he has with the program. It’s clear this move isn’t just professional - it’s personal.
Klein echoed that sentiment, calling Ellsworth “a rising star” in the coaching ranks. “His work ethic and competitive nature are on another level,” Klein said.
“He is of the utmost character and integrity, and I am proud for him to develop our quarterbacks.” That’s high praise from a former quarterback who knows what it takes to lead a room.
Jordan Peterson Takes Over as Defensive Coordinator
On the other side of the ball, Klein is tapping into another Texas A&M connection. Jordan Peterson, who served as the Aggies’ defensive backs coach and co-defensive coordinator over the past two seasons, is heading to Kansas State as the new defensive coordinator. He steps in for Joe Klanderman, who recently accepted a position at Baylor.
Peterson isn’t new to the Sunflower State. From 2020 to 2023, he was on staff at Kansas, working as the safeties coach and defensive pass game coordinator. That familiarity with the region - and with Big 12 football - should serve him well as he takes over a Kansas State defense that’s been a steady force in recent years.
Peterson’s impact at A&M was notable. He helped shape a secondary that played with physicality and discipline, and he was part of a defensive staff that consistently produced NFL-caliber talent. Bringing that mindset to Manhattan is a big win for Klein and the Wildcats.
In his statement, Peterson called Kansas State “a special place with a proud football tradition.” He also thanked A&M and head coach Mike Elko for “an incredible two years,” highlighting the relationships and support that helped shape his coaching journey.
A Staff Built on Continuity and Culture
What we’re seeing from Klein early on is a clear blueprint. He’s not just hiring coaches - he’s assembling a staff that shares his philosophy, his work ethic, and, in many cases, his past.
These aren’t just names on a résumé. These are people who’ve worked alongside him, learned from him, and helped him build success elsewhere.
That kind of continuity can be a game-changer, especially in a sport where coaching turnover is constant and culture can be hard to establish. With Ellsworth and Peterson, Klein is surrounding himself with coaches who know what he values - and who know how to teach it.
There’s still plenty of work ahead in Manhattan. But with these early hires, Klein is sending a clear message: Kansas State football is staying true to its roots, but it’s also evolving - and it’s bringing a little bit of the SEC mindset with it.