Collin Klein, a former Kansas State quarterback turned offensive coordinator, has become a notable name in college football coaching. In 2025, his salary reflects his expertise, growing reputation, and the demand for skilled coaching staff in competitive programs. This article explores Collin Klein’s salary in 2025, along with broader insights into salary factors across similar roles, job market trends, benefits, and how experience and education influence pay in this career path.
Collin Klein’s Estimated Salary in 2025
As of 2025, Collin Klein’s salary is estimated to be between $850,000 and $1.2 million annually as the offensive coordinator for Kansas State University. This reflects both his performance and the increasing budgets allocated to top-tier coaching staff in Power Five conferences.
Factors Influencing His Salary:
Program Prestige: Kansas State’s Big 12 affiliation boosts salary competitiveness.
Performance: Offensive rankings, bowl appearances, and player development add value.
Contract Terms: Incentives for wins, championships, and academic performance affect total take-home.
Market Comparisons: Other offensive coordinators in similar conferences earn in the $900K–$1.5M range.
Average Salary in Related Fields (2025)
While Collin Klein’s earnings are elite, it helps to compare with other professional roles and adjacent industries for context:
Coaching and Sports Positions:
College Offensive Coordinator (Power Five): $850K – $1.5M
Defensive Coordinator: $700K – $1.3M
Head Coach (Mid-Level Program): $2M – $4M
Athletic Director: $250K – $800K
Other Roles Mentioned (2025 Averages):
Peloton Instructor Salary: $80K – $500K+ (based on visibility and endorsements)
Sideliner Ref (NFL): $180K – $250K
SAP EDI Consultant: $103K – $140K
Senior Lead Navigator (Healthcare/Auxano): $90K – $130K
Salary by Experience
In coaching and leadership roles, experience directly impacts compensation:
| Experience Level | Average Salary (Off. Coordinator) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (1-3 yrs) | $200K – $400K |
| Mid-Level (4-6 yrs) | $400K – $800K |
| Senior (7+ yrs) | $850K – $1.5M+ |
Klein’s steady growth since 2018 has positioned him at the senior level, reflecting both trust and results.
Education & Certification Impact
While there are no required licenses for coaching, the following credentials influence earning potential:
Bachelor’s Degree (often in Sports Science, Education, or Psychology) – minimum requirement.
Master’s Degree (e.g., Sports Management, Leadership) – can add value.
Coaching Certifications:
NCAA Coaching Accreditation
CPR/First Aid (especially for lower-tier or assistant roles)
Strength and Conditioning (CSCS) for dual-role coaches
Benefits and Perks
Beyond base salary, coaches like Collin Klein enjoy a variety of benefits:
Performance Bonuses – tied to wins, bowl games, and rankings
Relocation Assistance
Housing Stipends or on-campus perks
Pension and 401(k) Plans
Travel, recruiting budgets, and conference allowances
Access to training facilities and medical support
Job Market Trends in Coaching (2025)
The sports industry remains competitive and lucrative, especially in college football:
Increased TV revenues = higher budgets for coaches
Data & analytics integration: New demand for tech-savvy coordinators
Performance-based hiring: Shorter contracts, higher expectations
Brand-building coaches (like Deion Sanders) influence pay scales beyond the field
Additionally, the trend of former players moving into coaching has increased, with athletic departments investing in alumni like Collin Klein who bring both legacy and leadership.
Final Thoughts
Collin Klein’s salary in 2025 highlights not only his personal growth and success but also larger trends in the sports job market. For those aspiring to enter coaching or similar high-performance fields, factors such as experience, education, and the prestige of the program or company play critical roles in determining compensation.
Whether you’re a fan, a prospective coach, or exploring career transitions, understanding the real-world salary data, influencing factors, and future opportunities gives you a clearer picture of the path ahead.