ESPN Raves About Big 12 Quarterback’s Decision to Avoid Transfer Portal

When Tennessee’s Nico Iamaleava announced his decision to enter the transfer portal, the Volunteers began searching for a quarterback to replace him.

Kansas State’s Avery Johnson reportedly received an all-out press from Tennessee, according to a report from ESPN, which dubbed Johnson’s decision to remain at Kansas State as having a major impact on the College Football Playoff.

“K-State can win another wide-open Big 12 race and earn an automatic bid into the playoff as one of the five highest-ranked conference champions,” ESPN’s Heather Dinich said. “Johnson never entered the transfer portal, but he attracted interest, especially after Tennessee lost Nico Iamaleava.”

The Wildcats’ quarterback was one of many Big 12 signal-callers contacted by the Volunteers, including Arizona State’s Sam Leavitt, Iowa State’s Rocco Becht, TCU’s Josh Hoover, and more.

“‘We got a damned wall built around him,'” a K-State source told ESPN. “‘They better bring the Tennessee National Guard.’ Expectations will be higher this year for Johnson, who threw for 2,712 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in his first full season as a starter last year. He also had 605 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. With the depth at wide receiver, K-State’s passing game could flourish this fall.”

The Wildcats should enter the season near the top of the Big 12 Preseason Poll, and if Johnson can take another step forward as a junior, Kansas State could find itself in elite company.