MANHATTAN, Kan. โ RECORD-BREAKING DEAL: Avery Johnson Commits to Kansas State on 5-Year, $8Mย DealโWith Major Brands Lining Up for Wildcatsโ Star QB Prospect
Avery Johnson is staying homeโand making history while doing it.
In one of the biggest announcements in Kansas State football history, Maize High School quarterback Avery Johnson has committed to play for the Wildcats, signing a staggering 5-year NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) package reportedly worth up to $8 million in total valuation. Itโs a groundbreaking moment not just for the university, but for college football recruiting in the Midwest.
The 6-foot-2, 180-pound dual-threat quarterback, hailed as one of the most exciting and versatile QB prospects in the country, made waves early in his high school career with his elite speed, strong arm, and leadership on the field. But what truly sets this announcement apart is the financial scope tied to his name.
According to sources close to the negotiation, Johnsonโs NIL deal includes endorsement partnerships with national retailer CVS Pharmacy, regional communications company WTC Fiber, and at least two yet-to-be-announced national brands expected to join the fold in the coming months. One insider described the overall package as โthe largest and most structured NIL commitment in Kansas Stateโs athletic history.โ
โA Kansas Kid With a Kansas Dreamโ
Johnsonโs decision to remain close to home and commit to K-State is being celebrated by fans across the state, especially given the fierce national competition for his signature. Programs from the SEC and Big Ten had reportedly made aggressive pitches to lure Johnson away, but the quarterback said staying in Kansas was about more than just football.
โThis is home. I grew up watching the Wildcats, dreaming of playing at Bill Snyder Family Stadium,โ Johnson said in a statement. โNow I get to do thatโrepresent my state, my town, and my family on the biggest stage. Iโm beyond grateful.โ
Johnsonโs commitment also speaks volumes about the new era of college athletics, where athletes are now empowered to earn income off their name and brand. With an NIL valuation already pegged at $1.6 million annually, Johnson enters the Kansas State program not just as a future starter, but as a marketing powerhouse.
A Big-Time Win for the Wildcats
For Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman and his staff, securing Johnsonโs commitment is a massive recruiting win. Known for his success in developing quarterbacks and building competitive teams, Klieman now gets a foundational piece to build around for the next half-decade.
โAvery is a special talent, but more than that, heโs a competitor and a leader,โ Klieman said. โHeโs the kind of young man who will elevate everyone around him. Weโre excited to get to work.โ
The timing couldnโt be better either. Kansas State is coming off a solid season and is looking to challenge for the Big 12 title in the coming years. With Johnson under center, expectations in Manhattan are risingโand fast.
โThis could be a program-defining moment,โ said one former Kansas State player. โAveryโs not just a recruit. Heโs a movement.โ
NIL Landscape EvolvesโAnd Kansas State Jumps Ahead
While many schools have been slow to embrace or coordinate NIL efforts in a meaningful way, Kansas Stateโs approach to Johnsonโs deal shows a shift toward professional-grade organization. Johnsonโs team reportedly worked closely with legal advisors, brand managers, and K-Stateโs athletic department to craft a deal that reflects both his athletic promise and commercial value.
โThis deal isnโt just about throwing money at a player,โ said a source involved in the agreement. โItโs about creating a sustainable, structured path that allows Avery to grow as a player and as a brand. It includes media training, financial planning, and long-term brand development.โ
The commitment also sends a message to future recruits: Kansas State is now a player in the NIL era. Johnsonโs deal is the blueprint for how mid-market schools can compete with powerhouse programs by offering strategic, long-term valueโnot just short-term hype.
A Baby on the Way and a Legacy in the Making?
In a twist that made the announcement even more heartwarming, it was also revealed that Johnson and his partner welcomed a newborn baby just days before the signing. While the family has chosen to keep most details private, whatโs known is that the child was named in honor of a Kansas State football legend, signaling just how deep the connection between the Johnson family and the university truly runs.
โIt just felt right,โ Johnson said. โThis program means something to me and my family. Now my child will grow up around the same values and community that shaped me.โ
Whatโs Next?
Avery Johnson is expected to enroll early at Kansas State, giving him an opportunity to take part in spring practices and begin competing for a starting role in Year 1. And with his high football IQ, elite athleticism, and natural leadership, thereโs a real chance he could see the field sooner rather than later.
Off the field, Johnson will also begin working with CVS and WTC Fiber on promotional campaigns that include social media advertising, regional TV spots, and community outreach. His team says there are โmultiple six-figure brand deals still under negotiation,โ including one with a major sports apparel company.
โWeโre just getting started,โ Johnsonโs agent teased. โAveryโs value is only going to growโand Kansas State is going to be along for the ride.โ
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Final Word
Avery Johnson isnโt just Kansas Stateโs next great quarterbackโheโs a trailblazer for the new generation of college athletes. With his commitment locked in and an $8 million NIL deal setting a new bar, heโs changing what it means to be a Wildcat.
And if this is just the beginning, the rest of the Big 12 better be ready.
