Former Kansas State Head Coach Making a Comeback as Consultant

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Former Kansas State football head coach Chris Klieman, who stepped down from his position in December 2025 after seven seasons, is making a comeback as an athletics consultant for the university ahead of the 2026 season. Klieman is expected to serve in this temporary role for eight months with a compensation of $500,000, and will also lend his expertise to first-year head coach Collin Klein, who previously served as an assistant under Klieman.

Why it matters

Klieman's return as a consultant provides a sense of familiarity and continuity for the Wildcats program, as many players are already familiar with him. This could help motivate the team and provide the new coaching staff with fresh perspectives, especially as Klein navigates his first year as head coach.

The details

Klieman was hired as Kansas State's 35th head coach in 2018 and spent seven seasons leading the Wildcats, compiling a 54-34 record. After a devastating 51-47 road loss to Utah last season, Klieman announced he would not return as head coach for the 2026 season. However, he is now set to serve as an athletics consultant, a role that is expected to be temporary and include a compensation of $500,000 over eight months. Klieman will also assist first-year head coach Collin Klein, who previously served as an assistant under Klieman from 2019 to 2023.

• Klieman was hired as Kansas State's head coach in 2018.
• Klieman announced he would step down as head coach on December 3, 2025, following the 2025 season.
• Klieman is expected to serve as an athletics consultant for eight months ahead of the 2026 season.

What’s next

Klieman's role as a consultant is expected to be temporary, lasting for eight months ahead of the 2026 season. During this time, he will work closely with first-year head coach Collin Klein to provide guidance and expertise.