A lot can change in a year, and Kansas State running back Joe Jackson is proof of that. Just a year ago, he was pushing himself through tough spring practices, hoping to earn a role in the Wildcats’ offense. As a freshman, he recorded 277 rushing yards, but he believed he was capable of much more. All he wanted was an opportunity in his sophomore season and he made the most of it. Jackson went on to earn All-Big 12 Third Team honors, leading the team with 911 rushing yards and eight touchdowns while averaging 75.9 yards per game, ranking fifth in the conference.
To Jackson, though, his success wasn’t surprising. He had always envisioned it and worked toward it, with his confidence growing steadily over time.
Now a junior, the 6-foot, 207-pound Florida native returns as a key piece of the offense. Despite changes around him including new head coach Collin Klein, running backs coach Cory Patterson, and incoming transfers Jay Harris and Rodney Fields Jr. Jackson remains a steady presence and emerging leader. His explosiveness and playmaking ability are expected to anchor the offense moving forward.
Jackson and Klein share history, as Klein originally recruited him in 2023. After Klein returned to Kansas State as head coach, he quickly reconnected with Jackson. The running back embraced the reunion, emphasizing unfinished business and a desire to achieve the goals the team fell short of last season.
Jackson’s breakout moment came on November 22, 2025, when he delivered a record-setting performance against Utah. He rushed for 293 yards the most in school history for a single game surpassing Darren Sproles’ previous record. His performance also ranked among the best in the nation that year and showcased his big-play ability.
With Klein leading the offense, Jackson is excited about the system’s versatility, which he believes will create opportunities not just for running backs but for the entire team. He views Klein as one of the top play-callers in the country and thrives under his aggressive, creative approach.
Even after last season’s success, Jackson remains focused on improving. He wants to refine small details like patience, vision, and trusting his blockers that could turn solid gains into explosive plays.
New running backs coach Cory Patterson is eager to help Jackson reach that next level. He sees Jackson as a durable, physical runner capable of handling a heavy workload but wants to help him become even more dangerous in open space. Jackson, in turn, appreciates Patterson’s energy and commitment to pushing him harder than ever before.
Beyond his on-field growth, Jackson has also worked to become a stronger leader. Naturally introverted, he has learned to bring teammates along with him, encouraging and guiding them while maintaining his own high standards. He has already built strong chemistry with transfers Harris and Fields, believing their complementary skills will keep the group fresh and effective throughout the season.
With months still to go before the Wildcats open the 2026 season, the team’s intensity in spring practice is already high. Jackson is optimistic about what lies ahead, believing the team has the potential to be dangerous if they continue improving each day.
In just one year, Jackson has evolved into a major offensive threat.
Now, he’s aiming even higher toward becoming one of the top running backs in the nation.
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