Pro Football Focus put Avery Johnson near the top of the Big 12 quarterback ranks this offseason, rating him as the fifth‑best returning signal‑caller in the conference with an 81.7 overall grade.
That nod from PFF fits neatly with a broader narrative: Johnson is seen as one of the key playmakers poised to carry Kansas State’s offense into 2025.
Avery Johnson has the potential to be one of the top Quarterbacks in College Football pic.twitter.com/svTokcMUjd
— PFF College (@PFF_College) July 28, 2025
Johnson flashed dual‑threat promise during his sophomore season. His passing yardage topped 2,700 yards with 25 touchdowns, and he also piled up over 600 rushing yards with seven rushing scores. K-State fans remember how he took over the offense early, pushing the Wildcats to a 7‑1 start and firmly into the Playoff conversation before late-season setbacks marred momentum.
PFF’s ranking might seem modest, but its methodology, which penalizes accuracy issues more harshly than raw stats, underscores Johnson’s upside and his growth areas. His penchant for occasional turnovers and pocket hesitation didn’t go unnoticed, but neither did his resilience and ability to extend plays on the ground. PFF’s data shows his passing grade climbs when afforded time, suggesting progress in both line play and decision‑making could elevate him further this year.
In Big 12 terms, Johnson enters 2025 as a high-upside pivot armed with dynamic legs, an improving arm, and a growing football IQ. Despite being ranked behind names like Sam Leavitt and Sawyer Robertson, the attention means Kansas State is no longer flying under the radar at quarterback.
If Johnson takes another step in cleaning up reads, reducing turnovers, and syncing with a young yet talented receivers corps, K‑State’s playoff ambitions could hinge on it. The spotlight’s on, PFF has noticed, and the Big 12 awaits what might be his breakout.
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