Rumors have begun swirling around Texas A&M offensive coordinator Collin Klein, linking him as a potential frontrunner for the Oklahoma State head coaching job. While these reports have yet to be substantiated by anyone from either university or any reliable national sources, the buzz itself has been enough to turn heads across the college football landscape.
Whenever multiple outlets start to mention the same name, even without confirmation, it’s often a sign of how respected that coach has become and Klein’s rapid rise through the coaching ranks makes him an easy name to attach to a high-profile vacancy.
Who Is Collin Klein?
For those who might not remember, Klein was once one of college football’s brightest stars. The former Kansas State quarterback played for the Wildcats from 2009 to 2012, leading them to national prominence under Bill Snyder. In his senior season, Klein was a Heisman Trophy finalist and one of the most dynamic dual-threat quarterbacks in the nation, known for his physical running style and leadership on and off the field.
After college, Klein briefly pursued a professional career, spending a stint in the CFL, before returning to Kansas State to begin his coaching journey. He started humbly as a graduate assistant, working his way up to quarterbacks coach, then co-offensive coordinator, and ultimately one of the brightest young offensive minds in the Big 12.
His success at Kansas State eventually led to his current role as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Texas A&M, a position he took in 2024.
Aggies Offense on the Rise
Under Klein’s leadership, the Aggies’ offense has taken the college football world by storm. Texas A&M climbed to No. 3 in the latest AP Poll, powered by a balanced and efficient attack that has found success through both the air and the ground. The Aggies rank 26th nationally in rushing offense and 36th in passing offense, numbers that reflect a balanced, adaptable system and especially impressive given the gauntlet of defenses they face weekly in the SEC.
At the center of it all is quarterback Marcel Reed, who has emerged as a legitimate Heisman contender. Reed’s development from his freshman to sophomore season has been remarkable, showcasing poise, leadership, and versatility which are all traits that speak volumes about Klein’s coaching ability.
If A&M continues its winning ways and makes a serious College Football Playoff run, expect Klein’s name to keep popping up in coaching rumors.
Head Coaching Potential
Klein hasn’t shied away from acknowledging his aspirations. When asked about potentially becoming a head coach, he struck a balanced tone but not campaigning for opportunities, but also not dismissing the idea.
“Being a head coach is something I’d love to do at some point,” Klein said recently, emphasizing his current focus on the job at hand in College Station.
That kind of response doesn’t sound like someone hunting for his next gig, but it certainly leaves the door open. Schools in search of young, offensive-minded leaders are taking notice and Oklahoma State, should they move in a new direction, could see Klein as the kind of risk-reward hire with long-term upside.
The Bottom Line
Right now, the rumors remain just that. No credible reports indicate that Oklahoma State has reached out, and Texas A&M remains fully locked in on its postseason ambitions.
But when a coach leads one of the nation’s most balanced and exciting offenses, develops a Heisman-caliber quarterback, and carries the pedigree of a former star player with deep ties to winning programs, it’s only natural for his name to start circulating.
Collin Klein may not be jumping at the first opportunity that comes his way. But make no mistake he’s on the radar now, and if Texas A&M keeps winning, that spotlight is only going to grow brighter.