Football never takes a break, even when the season ends. For Avery Johnson, Kansas State’s emerging star quarterback, the preparation for 2025 is already in full swing. Between lifting weights, watching film, and perfecting his technique, the grind is relentless.
However, there are moments when football takes a backseat, and emotions become more significant than the playbook. Thursday was one of those moments for the #2 Wildcat, as he paused from his preparation to remember someone who had a profound impact on his life outside of football.
The 2023 Pop-Tarts Bowl MVP shared a few Instagram stories that day, but one in particular was sure to move anyone who saw it. In the middle of his intense offseason work, Avery took a moment to share a touching tribute to his late grandmother on her birthday. His caption was simple but deeply emotional: “Happy birthday grandma, love you and miss you.” Johnson, who hails from Wichita, Kansas, played multiple sports at Maize High School before making his mark in football.
For Avery Johnson, his sophomore season holds significance beyond just his development as a quarterback. Under head coach Chris Klieman in year six, the Wildcats finished a solid 9-4 in 2024, capped off by a thrilling 44-41 victory over Rutgers in the Rate Bowl. However, their late-season struggles—losing three of their final four games—ended any hopes of a Big 12 title. As Kansas State looks to bounce back in 2025, much will depend on Johnson’s leadership. In 2024, he threw for 2,712 yards and 25 touchdowns, and rushed for 605 yards, showcasing his dual-threat ability.
At 6’2″ and 188 pounds, Johnson’s knack for improvisation, extending plays, and leading with calmness has K-State fans excited about what the future holds. If his performance in the Pop-Tarts Bowl was any indication, he’s ready for the challenge. Against Rutgers, he completed 15 of 30 passes for 195 yards, three touchdowns, and an interception—though those stats barely reflect the full extent of his impact.
Looking ahead, the road won’t be easy. The Wildcats will continue to tailor their offense around Johnson’s strengths, blending up-tempo play with his dual-threat abilities. But with defenses now having a full season of tape on him, he’ll need to sharpen his pre-snap reads and decision-making to stay one step ahead.
But after taking a brief moment to reflect, Johnson wasted no time getting back to work. Later that afternoon, his Instagram story was clear: the moment of remembrance was over, and he was back on the grind. His message was direct: “Back to work.”
With Kansas State expected to take a major leap forward next season and many early rankings placing them in the preseason Top 25, Johnson is poised to elevate his game in his junior year. Following a sophomore season with its ups and downs, he’s already one of the Big 12 players with the best odds to win the Heisman Trophy, according to FanDuel.
And if his social media post wasn’t enough motivation, Johnson’s comments after the Rate Bowl should be. “I think we can be a really talented team,” he said. “In the future, I feel like we can play for a Big 12 championship and win it—and then play in the College Football Playoffs. It’s just a lot of unfinished business here at Kansas State.”