Overview
- Johnson announced his decision on Jan. 2 via Instagram, citing "unfinished business" and confidence in the program.
- The timing matched the opening of the NCAA transfer portal, positioning Kansas State to shape its portal strategy around a returning starter.
- Klein recruited Johnson to Manhattan and coached him as a freshman before spending the past two seasons as Texas A&M's offensive coordinator.
- A dynamic dual‑threat, Johnson posted 2,712 passing yards and 25 touchdowns in 2024, adding 605 rushing yards and seven scores.
- Reporters view the decision as the key offseason roster domino that secures stability at quarterback as the Wildcats retool for 2026.