Colin Klein has officially put any speculation to rest regarding the future of Kansas State Wildcats football’ backfield.
Following the offseason departure of Dylan Edwards, questions lingered about who would step into the featured role. Klein, however, made it clear that the Wildcats already have their answer — and it’s a player who proved himself when the opportunity arrived last season.
Joe Jackson has been identified as the official replacement, a decision rooted in performance rather than projection. After Edwards went down early in 2025, Jackson assumed control of the rushing attack and delivered one of the most productive stretches in recent program history.
His 293-yard performance against Utah set a new single-game school rushing record, surpassing a mark previously held by Wildcats legend Darren Sproles. He finished the season with eight rushing touchdowns and demonstrated the durability and versatility needed to anchor the offense.
Klein’s public backing signals stability at a position that briefly appeared uncertain. With Jackson now firmly established as the lead back, Kansas State enters the upcoming season with clarity, continuity and renewed confidence in its offensive identity.