Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson is already generating NFL buzz.
The sophomore signal-caller was named one of the top prospects to watch in the 2026 NFL Draft class, according to an ESPN article published Friday.
Johnson, who led K-State to a 9-4 record in his first year as a starter, will open the 2025 season against Iowa State in Dublin, Ireland.
Johnson quickly made a name for himself in 2024 as one of the nation’s most explosive dual-threat quarterbacks, drawing attention from scouts and analysts alike.
“With 2,712 passing yards and a school-record 25 touchdown passes, Johnson was the engine of Kansas State's offense last season,” the article states. “The thinly built 6-2, 192-pounder also ran for 605 yards and seven touchdowns. He's equally effective throwing and running, as he rushed for 50 or more yards in seven games last season. He needs to continue to develop as a passer, having thrown 10 interceptions last season, but Johnson is one of the most dangerous dual-threat QBs in the country.”
Statistically, Johnson is already climbing the program’s record books. He ranks sixth all-time in passing efficiency (137.2), ninth in passing yards per game (152.0), tied for ninth in touchdown passes (30), and tied for 10th in total touchdown responsibility (44). He’s just 186 rushing yards away from becoming one of the top 10 rushing quarterbacks in K-State history.
He’s also within reach of top-10 marks in completions (115 away), pass attempts (190), and passing yards (1,451). With 10 career wins, he’s tied for 10th among K-State QBs since 1990. His 71.4% winning percentage ranks seventh among quarterbacks with at least 10 starts.
Johnson enters 2025 leading a reloaded receiving corps. Despite losing key weapons like Keagan Johnson, Tre Spivey III, and Dante Cephus, the Wildcats added impact transfers Jerand Bradley, Caleb Medford, and Jaron Tibbs.
Jayce Brown, the team’s leading receiver in 2024, also returns to anchor the unit. The tight end group also remains deep with Garrett Oakley, Will Swanson, Brayden Loftin, and highly touted freshman Linkon Cure ready to contribute in new offensive coordinator Matt Wells' system.
Head coach Chris Klieman praised Johnson’s growth and leadership heading into the fall.
"Johnson has just got an infectious personality and that aura about him,” Klieman told K-State Sports. “He’s embraced it and taken it to the next level. He’s not afraid to hold others to the standard he expects. He has to live up to it, too, but his leadership continues to evolve.”