MANHATTAN — Kansas State released its first two‑deep of the 2026 season Monday, providing clarity on several position battles while leaving a handful of roles intentionally open as the Wildcats prepare to host Nicholls on Saturday, Sept. 5, at Bill Snyder Family Stadium.
Quarterback situation: a clear starter, backup unsettled
The first depth chart names Avery Johnson as the starting quarterback, but the roster leaves the backup spot ambiguous. The chart lists Jacob Knuth and Blake Barnett in a shared secondary role, with coach Collin Klein declining to single out a designated No. 2 heading into Week 1.
The decision underscores the coaching staff's desire for flexibility in the opening game of Klein's tenure. Johnson's naming as starter provides a degree of continuity for the offense, while the "or" designation for the backup suggests the staff is preserving options based on practice snaps and in‑game needs.
Receiving corps and running back rotation
The Wildcats' wide receiver group is led by starters Jaron Tibbs, Brandon White and Josh Manning, with Adonis Moise, Izaiah Williams and Derrick Salley Jr. listed as their backups. The depth chart notes that Williams is expected to mix into the top four receivers.
At running back, Kansas State opted to list a three‑man rotation, naming Joe Jackson, Jay Harris and Rodney Fields all as starters. No explicit backups were listed for the position group, reflecting the team's plan to deploy a shared workload among the three primary rushers.
Tight ends and offensive line notes
Tight end snaps are likewise slated for rotation, with Garrett Oakley, Will Anciaux and Lincoln Cure all listed as starters. The trio had been expected to split time during fall camp and were all included in Klein's initial chart.
Along the offensive front, the depth chart lists:
| Position | Starter(s) |
|---|---|
| Left tackle | Ryan Howard |
| Left guard | Charlie Adams or Tanner Morley |
| Center | Dylan Villarouel |
| Right guard | Keiton Jones |
| Right tackle | Gus Hawkins |
Notably absent from the starting five is Oliver Miller, who had been expected to factor into the line. His omission could indicate a minor injury or limited snaps as the staff manages his readiness. The presence of an "or" between Adams and Morley suggests Morley may be a game‑time decision or that his participation could be limited.
Secondary and safeties
The cornerback group will be anchored by Zashon Rich and Kaleb Patterson, with nickel back JoJo Scott also listed among the starters. Backups include Garrick Dixon, Damion Miller and a nickel spot that lists Nick McClellan or Michael Graham. Of note, Donovan McIntosh does not appear on this initial depth chart.
At safety, the staff listed Wesley Fair or Koy Beasley at free safety and Logan Bartley at strong safety, with Ja'Son Prevard listed as a backup. Another expected contributor, Adrian Maddox, was not included on the depth chart released Monday.
What this means for Week 1
The depth chart offers a mix of affirmation and ambiguity. A clear starter at quarterback and a defined receiving corps give Kansas State some offensive stability, but several "or" entries and omitted names signal that Collin Klein and his staff are holding cards close to the chest as they enter the first game of his head coaching tenure.
- Game: Kansas State vs. Nicholls, Sept. 5, 6 p.m., Bill Snyder Family Stadium
- Head coach: Collin Klein (first game)
- Key questions: Backup quarterback, Oliver Miller's status, and which offensive lineman starts if Morley is limited
Kansas State's initial two‑deep sets a baseline for fall camp outcomes and provides fans with an early look at how Klein intends to deploy depth across the roster. More adjustments are likely between now and kickoff as coaches finalize game plans and react to any practice‑week developments.
Coverage of the Wildcats continues through the week with practice observations and injury updates ahead of Saturday's opener.
