The Ultimate 2024 K-State Football Depth Chart: 5 Position Battles That Will Define The Season

The Kansas State Wildcats are poised to make a major statement in the new-look Big 12 Conference this year, and all eyes are on the finalized 2024 K-State depth chart. With the departure of several key veterans and the elevation of star quarterback Avery Johnson, Head Coach Chris Klieman and his staff have meticulously constructed a roster built on a blend of proven talent and high-upside youth. This comprehensive, up-to-the-minute analysis, based on the most current information available in December 2025, breaks down every starter, backup, and critical position battle that will shape the Wildcats' journey toward a Big 12 Championship bid.

The 2024 season marks a significant transition for the Wildcats, especially with the keys to the offense officially handed to Johnson. The depth chart reflects Klieman's philosophy of building through the trenches while leveraging dynamic playmakers on both sides of the ball. From the fiercely contested offensive line positions to the revamped secondary, understanding this depth chart is essential for any fan tracking the team's path to success.

Kansas State Wildcats 2024 Football Depth Chart: The Full Roster Breakdown

The following is a detailed look at the projected two-deep depth chart for the Kansas State Wildcats, highlighting the key players and providing an entity-rich overview of the 2024 roster.

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Offense: The Avery Johnson Era Takes Center Stage

The offense, guided by Offensive Coordinator Matt Wells, is expected to be more dynamic and explosive than ever, centered around the dual-threat capabilities of its new starting quarterback. The depth chart shows a strong running back room and an experienced offensive line, despite some internal competition.

• Quarterback (QB): Avery Johnson (Starter) | Jacob Knuth OR Ta'Quan Roberson (Backup Battle)
• Running Back (RB): DJ Giddens (Starter) | Dylan Edwards | Joe Jackson
• Wide Receiver (WR-X): Jayce Brown (Starter) | Keagan Johnson
• Wide Receiver (WR-Z): Jaden French (Starter) | Sterling Lockett
• Tight End (TE): Garrett Oakley (Starter) | Will Swanson OR Brayden Loftin
• Left Tackle (LT): Easton Kilty (Starter) | John Pastore
• Left Guard (LG): Hadley Panzer (Starter) | Andrew Leingang
• Center (C): Sam Hecht (Starter) | Michael Capria
• Right Guard (RG): Taylor Poitier (Starter) | Alex Key (Fierce Battle)
• Right Tackle (RT): Carver Willis (Starter) | Drake Bequeaith

Defense: Reloading Under Coach Klieman

The defense faces the challenge of replacing several NFL-bound players, particularly in the secondary. However, the return of veteran leaders and the impact of key transfer portal additions provide a solid foundation for defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman's unit. The defensive line, anchored by a proven edge rusher, remains a strength.

• Defensive End (DE): Brendan Mott (Starter) | Tobi Osunsanmi
• Defensive Tackle (DT): Uso Seumalo (Starter) | Adrian Bekibele
• Defensive Tackle (DT): Jerrell Wimbley (Starter) | Andy Burburija
• Defensive End (DE): Cody Stufflebean (Starter) | Jordan Allen
• Linebacker (LB-WILL): Austin Romaine (Starter) | Alec Marenco (Key Battle)
• Linebacker (LB-MIKE): Jake Clifton (Starter) | Dejon Ackerson Jr.
• Cornerback (CB): Keenan Garber (Starter) | Will Lee
• Cornerback (CB): Jacob Parrish (Starter) | Jordan Wright
• Safety (S): VJ Payne (Starter) | Callen Barta
• Safety (S): Marques Sigle (Starter) | Wesley Fair

Special Teams: The Third Phase

Special teams are often a deciding factor in tight Big 12 contests, and K-State has a history of excellence in this area. The specialists and return men are set to be major playmakers.

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• Kicker (K): Chris Tennant (Starter) | Seth Porter
• Punter (P): Simon (Starter) | Jack Blumer
• Kick Returner (KR): Dylan Edwards OR Keagan Johnson
• Punt Returner (PR): Sterling Lockett (Starter) | Jacob Parrish

The 5 Most Critical Position Battles to Watch

While the overall K-State depth chart is strong, a handful of position battles will determine the ceiling of the 2024 Wildcats. These contests showcase the team's depth and competitive fire during fall camp and the early season.

1. The QB2 Back-Up Role: Knuth vs. Roberson

Avery Johnson is the undisputed QB1, but the battle for the primary backup is intense. Ta'Quan Roberson, a transfer with significant college experience, is pushing Jacob Knuth, a high-potential sophomore. Roberson offers a different style of play and a steady hand, while Knuth represents the future development of the program. The QB2 decision is crucial, as the backup is only one snap away from leading the team in the highly competitive Big 12. This depth provides a critical insurance policy for the Wildcats.

2. The Right Guard (RG) Trench War: Poitier vs. Key

The offensive line is the bedrock of Klieman's system, and while the rest of the line seems set with veterans like Easton Kilty and Hadley Panzer, the Right Guard spot is a fierce competition. Taylor Poitier, listed as the current starter, is being challenged by Alex Key. The winner of this battle will complete the unit responsible for protecting Johnson and opening holes for the powerful running back DJ Giddens. The cohesion of this group is a major topical authority point for the team’s success.

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3. Linebacker Depth: Romaine vs. Marenco

The Linebacker corps needs to step up, and the battle between Austin Romaine and Alec Marenco for the WILL position is key to shoring up the defense. Both players bring different strengths, and the coaching staff is looking for the most consistent and instinctual player to pair with veteran Jake Clifton. The depth at this position is vital for run support and coverage against dynamic Big 12 offenses.

4. The No. 2 Wide Receiver Spot: French vs. Lockett

Keagan Johnson is expected to be a primary target, but the Wildcats need another reliable receiver to take pressure off the running game. Jaden French has shown flashes, but Sterling Lockett is a name to watch, especially given his potential as a punt returner. The ability of the second-tier receivers to consistently win one-on-one matchups will determine how effective Avery Johnson can be stretching the field. This position battle is a huge factor in the team's offensive efficiency.

5. Kick Returner: The Speed of Edwards vs. Johnson

Special teams coordinator Sean Snyder has a wealth of options for the return game. The battle for the primary kick returner is between two of the team's fastest players: running back Dylan Edwards and wide receiver Keagan Johnson. Both possess elite speed and elusiveness, making this one of the most exciting competitions on the K-State depth chart. Their performance in the return game could provide critical field position advantages throughout the season.

The Impact of the Transfer Portal and New Faces

The 2024 K-State depth chart is a clear reflection of the modern college football landscape, with the transfer portal playing a significant role in filling roster holes. Coach Klieman and his staff utilized the portal strategically to enhance depth and plug gaps, particularly in the secondary which saw several key losses.

The addition of players like Ta'Quan Roberson at QB and other defensive backs from the portal has ensured that the Wildcats' two-deep roster is stocked with experienced talent, preventing any major drop-off in quality. This strategic reloading, rather than rebuilding, is a major reason why many analysts view Kansas State as a legitimate Big 12 contender, despite the conference's expansion and increased competition. The integration of these new faces into the existing team culture, led by veterans like defensive end Brendan Mott, will be a crucial storyline to follow as the season progresses.

Ultimately, the 2024 K-State depth chart is a testament to the program's stability and development under Chris Klieman. With a clear QB1 in Avery Johnson and a competitive two-deep at nearly every position, the Wildcats have the personnel and topical authority to navigate a challenging Big 12 schedule. The outcomes of the key position battles in the trenches and the linebacker corps will be the final pieces that determine whether this talented roster can translate potential into another championship run.