ESPN calls Kansas State QB Avery Johnson ‘X-Factor’ in Top 25 rankings

Few players in Kansas State history have entered a season with as much hype or expectations as sophomore quarterback Avery Johnson.

It’s not just in Manhattan where people are taking notice, either.

ESPN labeled Johnson the “X-Factor” for the Wildcats in 2024 in breaking down team sin its Top 25 rankings, where Kansas State came in at No. 17 following spring football.

Kansas State allowed their starter for the last two years, Will Howard, to enter the transfer portal and he’ll be the starter for No. 2 Ohio State — a risky move considering Johnson only started one game as a freshman.

From ESPN: “Replacing Will Howard isn't a small task, but there is a lot of hope and the potential for big expectations if Johnson is the player many think he can be. He showed flashes as a freshman last season, most recently against NC State in the Pop Tarts Bowl, where he completed 14 of 31 passes for 178 yards and two touchdowns, along with 71 yards and a touchdown on the ground. If he meets expectations, there will be a lot of exciting football in Manhattan, Kansas, this year.”

Kansas State opens the season on Aug. 31 at home against Tennessee-Martin.