New voice, same Powercat identity: Wells talks K-State’s offensive future

Kansas State’s new offensive coordinator addressed the media for the first time on Wednesday, offering insights into quarterback Avery Johnson’s development and spotlighting several of the Wildcats’ expected playmakers for the upcoming season.

Matt Wells — the former head coach at Texas Tech and offensive coordinator at Utah State — is stepping into full-time playcalling duties for the 2025 season after serving in a co-coordinator role last year.

Wells praised Johnson’s growth over the offseason.

“Everything he can do expands what we do,” Wells told KStateSports.com. “The more Avery grows, learns, and develops, the more we do, too. And, man, I’ve been so proud of him over the past four months. He’s grown — in leadership, maturity, football knowledge, and understanding of this system. Maybe even in some new areas, as well as old ones — all of it combined.”

Johnson returns as the centerpiece of an offense looking to expand its aerial attack after struggles in the passing game last season.

Despite those inconsistencies, he was one of only three Power Four quarterbacks to eclipse 2,700 passing yards and 600 rushing yards, and he set a school record with 25 total touchdowns. Wells, however, believes there’s still room to grow.

“We’re aggressive — taking shots, using the weapons we have, and trying to maximize their ability,” he said. “As coaches, our job is to give these kids opportunities to make plays down the field. Everybody wants to be involved and get touches, and it’s on us to design and call plays that get the ball into their hands.”

To bolster the passing game, Kansas State revamped its receiving corps with transfers Jerand Bradley, Caleb Medford, and Jaron Tibbs. They’ll join tight ends Garrett Oakley and Brayden Loftin, along with running backs Dylan Edwards and Joe Jackson, as targets in the offense.

“The mindset is we want to continue to be physical and run the ball,” Wells added. “You have to run the ball late in the year, late in games — that’s always the mindset. Physicality is what defines the Powercat. That’s K-State, and that’s what this program has been for a long time. We want to maintain that identity.”

Wells also pointed out two newcomers on the offensive line — George Fitzpatrick and Amos Talalele — as players who could make an immediate impact.

“I’m excited about both of those guys,” Wells said. “They’ve had good springs and have fit in well here in their roles.”