Dec 26, 2024; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Kansas State Wildcats quarterback Avery Johnson (2) against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the Rate Bowl at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

K-State’s Avery Johnson Immersed In QB Prestige At Manning Passing Academy

Originally posted on Kansas State Wildcats on SI
By Branson Brooks | Last updated Jul 2, 2025 4:52 PM ET

Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson is receiving pointers from some of the greatest to ever play the position.

The junior quarterback attended the Manning Passing Academy, one of the most renowned camps in all of football. The camp is run by the accomplished family, including Senior Associate Directors Peyton Manning, Eli Manning, Cooper Manning, and Executive Director Archie Manning.

Johnson served as a camp counselor alongside several notable quarterbacks, including Duke’s Darian Mensah, Texas Tech’s Behren Morton, Iowa State’s Rocco Becht, Clemson’s Cade Klubnik, and Texas’s Arch Manning.

Football royalty passing it on to football’s future.

The best college QB’s in the country come to Manning Passing Academy to learn from the most legendary family in the game, and to teach the tools of the trade to 1,200 high school QB’s.#RatedProspect #WhoDoYouCollect pic.twitter.com/gxYbOJzLmD
— Panini America (@PaniniAmerica) June 29, 2025

Annually, the premier family of quarterbacks invites the nation’s top college players at the position to help teach campers what it takes to succeed at the next level. The Manning Passing Academy features a pro player forum with Eli and Peyton Manning, daily practices, and multiple skill challenges where campers can showcase their developing toolboxes.

Johnson shared a few photos showcasing his throwing skills and directing campers at the academy to his Instagram story.

Avery Johnson's Instagram story

Johnson earned the Manning invitation after passing for 2,712 yards and a school-record 25 touchdowns last season while also rushing for 605 yards and seven touchdowns. He led the Wildcats to a 9-4, including a 44-41 comeback victory over Rutgers in the Rate Bowl last.

Johnson’s play and hairstyle even caught the attention of quarterback guru Jon Gruden during the Manning Passing Academy.

Got to see my man Avery Johnson QB at Kansas State today!

Dual threat and has a great head of hair! pic.twitter.com/U6G2FZIgva
— Jon Gruden (@BarstoolGruden) June 27, 2025

Hopefully, Johnson absorbed some of the principles that made the Manning family successful quarterbacks while also picking up a few insights from Gruden.