🚨 COLLEGE STATION, TX – The celebratory mood surrounding the Texas A&M Aggies’ historic football season and their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance is facing an immediate, potentially devastating blow. On a day typically reserved for Early National Signing Day excitement, reports have emerged suggesting that offensive coordinator Collin Klein is set to depart College Station to take the head coaching job at his alma mater, Kansas State.
The news, first reported by Ned Seaton of The Manhattan Mercury, indicates that Klein is poised to replace long-time Wildcats head coach Chris Klieman, who is reportedly retiring. While ESPN has confirmed that discussions have taken place, the swiftness of the reported move has sent shockwaves through the Texas A&M Football program.
The Price of Success: Poaching a Top Coordinator
The Aggies’ current season, which saw them break the frustrating “Texas 8-4” stigma en route to an impressive 11-1 regular season record, has clearly made their coaching staff a prime target for other programs. Under head coach Mike Elko, a noted defensive mastermind, much of the offensive success has been directly attributed to Klein’s direction.
In his two seasons as the Aggies’ Offensive Coordinator, Klein transformed the unit, which this season is currently ranked among the top 20 nationally in total offense and points per game (36.3), according to the latest data. This production is critical, especially given the historical challenges of scoring in the rugged SEC. Klein’s ability to develop quarterbacks and run a dynamic, balanced attack—amassing significant passing and rushing yards and touchdowns—has made him one of the hottest commodities in college football’s coaching carousel.
Homecoming to the Big 12
For Kansas State, the move is a powerful homecoming. Klein is a legend in Manhattan, Kansas, having played quarterback for the Wildcats from 2008–2012. During his playing career, he was a Heisman Trophy finalist and led the team to a Big 12 Championship. Following a brief professional career, he spent nearly a decade coaching with the Wildcats, rising to the role of offensive coordinator before accepting the Aggies’ offer under Elko prior to the 2024 season.
The prospect of Klein taking his first head coaching job at a program where he is an icon is the ultimate lure, and one that Texas A&M fans had long feared.
Navigating the Playoff and Recruiting Turmoil
According to reports, Klein is expected to remain in his current role and call plays for the Aggies through their College Football Playoff run. While this offers a brief reprieve, the timing of the announcement—coinciding with the critical Early National Signing Day—creates immediate uncertainty.
Texas A&M has several explosive offensive playmakers signed or set to enroll, and Klein’s departure will inevitably raise questions among recruits and current players. Head coach Mike Elko will now be forced to immediately search for a coordinator capable of maintaining the momentum Klein established, all while preparing for the biggest games in program history.
The transfer portal will also be a major concern, as the loss of a key offensive coach often precipitates player departures. The focus is now twofold in College Station: winning a championship and finding a new offensive leader to stabilize the program’s future.