Collin Klein’s name is heating up in coaching circles again, and this week, he finally gave a little insight into how he feels about it. The Texas A&M offensive coordinator, and former Kansas State legend, was asked if becoming a head coach is something he wants, especially with his name starting to show up on shortlists across the country.
Klein didn’t give the rah-rah “hire me” pitch you might expect, but he didn’t exactly duck it either. He kept things measured, saying he’s focused on the job at hand, but also acknowledged that being a head coach is something he’d “love to do at some point.” That kind of answer doesn’t scream ambition, but it definitely opens the door for what’s next.
And that’s really the point. Klein’s in a good spot right now. He’s running the offense for a Texas A&M program loaded with talent and trying to carve out an identity in the SEC. He’s not in a rush. But it’s clear the desire is there. The resume is building. And the Big 12 should be paying attention.
There’s always going to be a link between Klein and Kansas State. That’s just how it works when you were the face of the program for a few years and nearly won a Heisman doing it. But this goes beyond Manhattan. Klein’s name is legit across the board now because of what he’s done developing quarterbacks, designing modern offenses, and proving he can hang in big-time recruiting battles.
If you’re looking for the next offensive-minded guy to lead a program, it makes sense his name is getting some traction. And if you’re Kansas State, you know the day is coming when Chris Klieman steps away. Whether that’s next year or five years from now, Klein’s name is always going to be part of that conversation.
For now, he says he’s focused on what’s in front of him. But the door is cracked, and schools looking for a young, rising head coach are going to keep knocking. Klein may not be jumping at the first offer, but make no mistake, he’s on the radar now, and he’s not going anywhere.
