“Football is about discipline, leadership, and building a culture where players can thrive.” — Collin Klein
Collin Klein is an American college football coach and former player, currently serving as the head coach of Kansas State University’s football team. Born September 19, 1989, in Loveland, Colorado, Klein rose to national prominence as Kansas State’s quarterback, finishing as a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2012. After a brief professional stint in the CFL, he transitioned into coaching, steadily climbing the ranks at Kansas State before being named head coach in 2026. Klein is recognized for his leadership, offensive innovation, and commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Collin Klein |
| Birthdate | September 19, 1989 |
| Birthplace | Loveland, Colorado, USA |
| Age | 36 years (as of 2026) |
| Height | 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) |
| Education | Kansas State University |
| Profession | College football coach, former quarterback |
| Employer | Kansas State University |
| Parents | Craig Klein (father), Kelley Klein (mother) |
| Siblings | Two brothers |
| Spouse | Married to Shalin Klein |
| Children | Three |
| Awards | Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2012), Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (2012) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $3–5 million |
| Salary | Approx. $4.1 million annually (2026 contract) |
Early Life & Education
Collin Klein was born in Loveland, Colorado, and grew up excelling in athletics and academics. He attended Kansas State University, where he became one of the most decorated quarterbacks in school history. His standout 2012 season saw him finish third in Heisman Trophy voting and earn multiple national awards.
Career Background
Playing Career
Klein played quarterback for Kansas State from 2008 to 2012, leading the Wildcats to a Big 12 Championship and earning national recognition. He briefly joined the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League in 2014.
Coaching Career
Klein began coaching at Kansas State as a graduate assistant before moving to Northern Iowa in 2016. He returned to Kansas State in 2017 as quarterbacks coach, later becoming offensive coordinator. In 2024, he joined Texas A&M as OC before returning to Kansas State in 2026 as head coach.
Achievements
- Heisman Trophy finalist (2012)
- Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2012)
- Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (2012)
- Guided Kansas State to Big 12 Championship as OC in 2022
- Named Head Coach of Kansas State in 2026
Personal Life
Collin Klein is married to Shalin Klein, and the couple has three children. He is known for his strong faith and family values, often emphasizing character development alongside athletic performance.
Legacy
Collin Klein’s legacy lies in his dual impact as a player and coach at Kansas State. From Heisman finalist quarterback to head coach, his journey reflects resilience, leadership, and loyalty to the Wildcats program. His offensive schemes and player development continue to shape Kansas State football’s future.
Collin Klein — FAQ (Coach / Media Personality)
Who is Collin Klein? He is the head coach of Kansas State University’s football team and a former Heisman Trophy finalist quarterback.
When was he born? September 19, 1989, in Loveland, Colorado.
Where did he play college football? Kansas State University (2008–2012).
Has he played professionally? Yes, briefly for the Montreal Alouettes in the CFL (2014).
What awards has he won? Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, and Heisman finalist honors.
Is he married? Yes, to Shalin Klein, with whom he has three children.
What is his salary? Approx. $4.1 million annually as Kansas State’s head coach.
What is his net worth? Estimated $3–5 million.
What coaching roles has he held? Graduate assistant, QB coach, offensive coordinator at Kansas State and Texas A&M, now head coach at Kansas State.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1989 | Born September 19 in Loveland, Colorado |
| 2008–2012 | Played quarterback at Kansas State University |
| 2012 | Heisman Trophy finalist; won Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award |
| 2014 | Briefly played for Montreal Alouettes (CFL) |
| 2014–2015 | Graduate assistant & quality control coach at Kansas State |
| 2016 | Quarterbacks coach at Northern Iowa |
| 2017–2021 | Returned to Kansas State as QB coach |
| 2022–2023 | Offensive Coordinator at Kansas State |
| 2024–2025 | Offensive Coordinator at Texas A&M |
| 2026–Present | Named Head Coach of Kansas State Wildcats |
Colleagues & Collaborators
- Chris Klieman – Former Kansas State head coach (predecessor)
- Bill Snyder – Legendary Kansas State coach and mentor
- Adrian Martinez – Former Kansas State quarterback under Klein’s coaching
- Deuce Vaughn – Kansas State running back during Klein’s OC tenure
- Texas A&M coaching staff (2024–25)—Collaborated as Offensive Coordinator
- Kansas State Wildcats staff (2026–present) – Current colleagues in Manhattan, Kansas
Social Media Pages
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