ESPN REPORT: Chris Klieman Stuns College Football World, Rejects $7.5M Offer from Georgia, Notre Dame to Stay with Kansas State Wildcats

 

In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the college football community, Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman has reportedly turned down a massive $7.5 million annual offer to become the offensive coordinator at either Georgia or Notre Dame, according to an ESPN report released Monday morning.

 

Klieman, 56, who has steadily built Kansas State into a respected force in the Big 12, was widely considered one of the top candidates to join elite programs seeking leadership and innovation. Sources say both Georgia and Notre Dame were aggressively pursuing Klieman to elevate their offensive play-calling and bring his championship pedigree to their storied programs.

 

But in a move that has earned widespread admiration, Klieman chose loyalty over lucrative opportunity, reaffirming his commitment to the Wildcats.

 

> “I have no plans beyond being the Kansas State head coach,” Klieman reportedly told ESPN. “This is my home, and I believe in what we’re building here.”

 

 

 

Klieman has compiled a 39–24 record since taking over the Kansas State program in 2019, highlighted by a Big 12 Championship in 2022 and a consistent presence in national rankings. His leadership has revitalized the program following the legendary Bill Snyder era, establishing a strong recruiting pipeline and a culture of toughness and discipline.

 

The offer from Georgia was believed to include full control of the offensive staff and a multi-year deal that would have made Klieman one of the highest-paid coordinators in the nation. Notre Dame, likewise, reportedly extended a similarly generous package. But despite the allure of joining national championship contenders, Klieman’s decision appears rooted in long-term vision and program loyalty.

 

“He’s not just a football coach; he’s a culture-builder,” said one anonymous Big 12 assistant. “Turning down that kind of money and spotlight tells you exactly what kind of leader he is.”

 

This move solidifies Kansas State’s stability moving forward and could have a ripple effect on the coaching carousel across the FBS. For Georgia and Notre Dame, it’s back to the drawing board in their search for elite offensive minds.

 

Klieman’s decision arrives at a pivotal time as Kansas State continues spring practices and prepares for a season with heightened expectations. Fans and boosters alike have rallied behind their coach, with social media flooded with praise and gratitude for his steadfast commitment.

 

As Klieman made clear, “My heart is in Manhattan, Kansas. That’s not changing.”