Collin Klein Gives High Praise to Freshman Offensive Lineman

Collin Klein was asked about the depth chart on Monday, and he mentioned freshman offensive lineman Oliver Miller as a guy who could be earning playing time.

Jul 8, 2026; Frisco, TX, USA; Kansas State head coach Collin Klein speaks to reporters during Big 12 Conference Football Media Days at The Star. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Collin Klein and the K-State Wildcats are only 24 days away from taking the field against Nicholls on Sept. 5. Klein and his staff are entering the final couple of weeks to make decisions on the depth chart for that game.

One of the biggest questions entering the season has been the offensive line, as the Wildcats lost most of the guys from a very good offensive line. John Pastore is one of the best offensive lineman in the conference, and is the lone returning starter for K-State.

With that many new players, there are plenty of opportunities for guys to stand out during the summer and earn playing time on the offensive line. One player who has stood out is freshman Oliver Miller. During his press conference on Monday, Klein talked about Miller being a guy who could find his way on the field sooner rather than later.

“I think he's definitely continued his trend. He's doing a tremendous job," Klein said. "He's in a position as one of, if not the main, true freshman that will be in the heat of it pretty early. So, credit to him. He comes from a great program there in Denver and coaches that I greatly respect and even grew up watching a little bit. So, I'm proud to have him in purple.”

Offensive line holds key to the entire 2026 season

There is a lot to like about the K-State offense this year, as there is a ton of talent at the skilled positions. Quarterback Avery Johnson has as much experience as any quarterback in the Big 12, and guys like Jaron Tibbs, Joe Jackson and Garrett Oaklay is one of the better trios in the conference.

Pastore has proven that he is good enough to be the anchor on the offensive line. Now, Klein and his staff are looking for the guys who will step in and take a role. Gus Hawkins is a returner from last year's team and has a high upside moving forward in his career. The Wildcats got players out of the portal like Tanner Morley, Delvin Morris, and Charlie Adams are guys who could play pivotal roles in the team's success this year.

Expectations are extremely high when it comes to the offense being led by Johnson. With Klein back, the expectations are that Johnson will take his game to another level. If he can do that, then it means that multiple guys have stepped up on the offensive line.