Two-Way Star Nick McClellan Ready to Bring ‘Family’ Vibe to Kansas State Football
A highly decorated athlete with a rare skillset, Nick McClellan is set to join the Kansas State Wildcats, eager to contribute to a program he describes as “family.” The incoming freshman arrives in Manhattan on January 18, poised to make an impact after a stellar high school career as both a quarterback and safety.
McClellan, a first team all-state honoree at Christian Brothers College (Mo.) High School, distinguished himself as one of the nation’s premier two-way players. His performance on October 3 against Rabun Gap-Nacoochee High School in Georgia exemplified his capabilities. The 6-foot, 195-pounder threw for 345 yards and three touchdowns while also rushing for two scores. On defense, he recorded four tackles and two interceptions in a 59-49 victory.
“It was a crazy game,” McClellan chuckled, reflecting on the high-scoring affair. “Our offense was really, really, really good.”
His success continued throughout the season. Christian Brothers College defeated De Smet Jesuit 55-36 and Lafayette 77-62 in the Missouri state playoffs before falling to Jackson 45-42 in the state semifinals. McClellan described his senior season as “super fun,” adding it was “if not my best year, one of my best years in high school just because of how fun it was.”
Despite only beginning his career as a safety during his sophomore year, McClellan quickly garnered attention from Power 4 schools. His technique, 4.5 speed, and exceptional body control allowed him to excel at the position, highlighted by an early career pick-six. He ultimately received scholarship offers from twelve schools, including five from Power 4 conferences.
After narrowing his choices, McClellan’s finalists were Missouri, Kansas, and Kansas State. However, K-State consistently remained at the forefront of his mind.
The transition to K-State has been swift, marked by recent coaching changes. Shortly after McClellan signed on December 3, head coach Chris Klieman announced his departure, paving the way for Collin Klein to take the helm. Klein quickly reached out to McClellan, solidifying the connection.
“Coach Klein texted me first, and he said, ‘Hey, this is Coach Klein just checking in on you,’” McClellan recalled. “I said, ‘Hey Coach, how are you doing? Can’t wait to get to work with you.’ He was like, ‘You’ll love it, man. Can’t wait to get to Manhattan.’”
McClellan expressed his admiration for Klein’s coaching abilities, noting his success at Texas A&M. He has long been a fan of K-State football, stating, “All I’ve been thinking about is wearing that K-State jersey. It’s going to be super fun going up there and getting to play ball.”
The sense of community at Kansas State was a key factor in McClellan’s decision. “Kansas State is family,” he emphasized. “Everyone is so bought into the program. There’s a tight bond no matter the position group. The defensive backs have a tight bond with the quarterbacks. It is a family. The family bond is strong at K-State.”
During his senior season in 2025, McClellan recorded 35 tackles, three interceptions, and numerous pass breakups against some of Missouri’s top receivers. He is expected to seamlessly integrate into any defensive system. He will have the opportunity to prove himself to Jordan Peterson, the newly appointed defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach, who previously worked alongside Klein at Texas A&M. Peterson’s defensive backs at Texas A&M were responsible for 24 pass breakups last season, and the Aggies ranked among the nation’s leaders in several key defensive categories, including third-down defense (No. 1), sacks (No. 2), and tackles for loss (No. 3).
McClellan is confident in his abilities, stating, “I’m fast, quick, smart and have great ball skills. I have ball skills like no other when it comes to the safety position, and with me also having played at quarterback I bring a high IQ to the game.” He is particularly excited about the opportunities presented by the Big 12 Conference’s pass-heavy offenses. “The Big 12 passes the ball a lot. I’m going to get chances to make plays on the ball. I’m excited to see how we do against the other teams.”
As he prepares for his collegiate career, McClellan is also looking forward to the holidays. He shares a cherished tradition of watching “Polar Express” with his mother and decorating the Christmas tree together. He fondly remembers receiving a stuffed German Shepherd named Dusty at age eight and a phone at age fourteen as particularly meaningful gifts.
McClellan understands the hard work ahead – winter conditioning, spring workouts, film study, and position meetings at the Vanier Family Football Complex. But he is embracing the challenge, eagerly anticipating the moment he steps onto the field for the 2026 season opener.
“It’s going to be surreal,” he said. “I’ve been dreaming of playing Division I football my entire life. Now I’m going to do it for real. I know I’ll be focused on the game. I know I’ll have to get into game mode and be ready to play the game. But it’ll be a dream.”
Hopefully, the first of many dreams realized for McClellan during his years at K-State.
