SHOCKWAVE IN COLLEGE FOOTBALL: Chris Klieman REJECTS $7.5M Offer from Georgia & Notre Dame — Stays LOYAL to Kansas State
In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman has reportedly turned down lucrative offers from powerhouse programs Georgia and Notre Dame—each rumored to be in the $7.5 million range annually—in favor of staying with the Kansas State Wildcats. The decision not only speaks volumes about Klieman’s character and values but also firmly establishes his loyalty to a program he has helped transform into a consistent Big 12 contender.
With head coaching vacancies and rumors swirling this offseason, Klieman quickly became one of the hottest names in the coaching carousel. His resume—highlighted by a Big 12 Championship and a history of success dating back to his multiple national titles at North Dakota State—made him a top target for some of the most prestigious programs in the nation. Both Georgia and Notre Dame, programs with national title expectations year after year, were reportedly prepared to open their checkbooks to bring Klieman into their fold.
But in a move that few saw coming, Klieman declined both offers. According to sources close to the situation, his decision was rooted in loyalty, unfinished business, and a deep commitment to the culture he has cultivated at Kansas State.
“I’ve built something special here, and we’re not done yet,” Klieman said in a statement released through the university. “I’m grateful for the interest from other programs, but my heart is in Manhattan, Kansas. This is home.”
The decision comes as a major win for Kansas State, which has enjoyed one of its most stable and successful periods in recent history under Klieman’s leadership. Since taking over in 2019, he has compiled an impressive record, developed a reputation for maximizing player talent, and restored a physical, disciplined style of football that resonates with fans and alumni alike. His 2022 Big 12 Championship win further solidified his status as one of the top coaches in the nation.
Rejecting offers from programs like Georgia and Notre Dame—both of which have made the College Football Playoff in recent years—shows Klieman’s unique approach in an era where coaches frequently chase bigger checks and glitzier job titles. His decision to remain with a smaller-market program like Kansas State is being praised across the college football landscape as a rare act of integrity and belief in long-term vision over short-term gain.
Kansas State athletic director Gene Taylor released a statement expressing his admiration and support for Klieman’s decision: “Chris has been a transformative figure for Kansas State football. His loyalty and commitment speak volumes about who he is as a leader. We’re proud to have him, and we’ll continue to invest in building something sustainable and special together.”
Meanwhile, fans in Manhattan are celebrating what feels like a massive win. On social media, the hashtag #LoyaltyOverMoney began trending shortly after the announcement, with K-State fans flooding timelines with appreciation and admiration for their head coach.
In a landscape where coaching loyalty is increasingly rare, Chris Klieman’s decision to stay rooted in Kansas State is more than just a football story—it’s a statement. It’s a reminder that success doesn’t always mean chasing the next big thing. Sometimes, it’s about building something lasting, right where you are.
And in Manhattan, Kansas, something very special is being built—brick by brick, win by win, and led by a coach who chose loyalty over millions.
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