25 Facts About Collin Klein

Early Life and Background

Collin Klein's journey to football stardom began long before he stepped onto a college field. His early life set the stage for his future success.

1. Born on September 19, 1989, in Loveland, Colorado, Klein grew up in a sports-loving family.
2. His father, Doug Klein, was a high school football coach, which influenced Collin's passion for the game.
3. Klein attended Loveland High School, where he excelled in both football and basketball.
4. He was a standout quarterback in high school, earning All-State honors in his senior year.
5. Besides sports, Klein was also a dedicated student, maintaining a high GPA throughout his academic career.

College Career at Kansas State

Klein's college career at Kansas State University was nothing short of remarkable. His time there solidified his reputation as a top-tier quarterback.

6. Klein joined Kansas State in 2008, redshirting his first year to develop his skills.
7. He became the starting quarterback in 2011, leading the Wildcats to a 10-3 record.
8. In 2012, Klein was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy, finishing third in the voting.
9. He set a school record for rushing touchdowns by a quarterback with 27 in a single season.
10. Klein was named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year in 2012.

Notable Achievements and Records

Klein's achievements on the field are numerous. His records and accolades speak volumes about his talent and dedication.

11. He holds the Kansas State record for most career rushing touchdowns by a quarterback with 56.
12. Klein was the first player in school history to pass for over 2,000 yards and rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season.
13. He led Kansas State to a Big 12 Championship in 2012.
14. Klein was a two-time All-Big 12 selection.
15. He was awarded the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award in 2012.

Professional Career and Beyond

After college, Klein's football journey continued, though it took some unexpected turns.

16. Klein went undrafted in the 2013 NFL Draft but signed with the Houston Texans as a free agent.
17. He also had brief stints with the Montreal Alouettes and the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football League.
18. Klein transitioned into coaching, joining the Kansas State coaching staff in 2014.
19. He served as a graduate assistant before being promoted to quarterbacks coach in 2017.
20. Klein's coaching helped develop future NFL quarterback Skylar Thompson.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond football, Klein's personal life and interests reveal a well-rounded individual with a strong sense of community.

21. Klein married his college sweetheart, Shalin Spani, in 2013. Shalin was a standout athlete at Kansas State as well.
22. The couple has three children, and family remains a central part of Klein's life.
23. Klein is deeply involved in his local church and community service projects.
24. He enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, often spending time in nature with his family.
25. Klein is known for his humility and strong work ethic, traits that have endeared him to fans and colleagues alike.

Collin Klein: A Remarkable Journey

Collin Klein's story is nothing short of inspiring. From his days as a standout quarterback at Kansas State to his transition into coaching, Klein has shown resilience, dedication, and a passion for football. His achievements on the field, including leading his team to a Big 12 Championship, are matched by his commitment to mentoring young athletes off the field. Klein's journey is a testament to hard work and perseverance, proving that with the right mindset, one can overcome any obstacle. Whether you're a football fan or not, there's something to admire in Klein's relentless pursuit of excellence. His legacy continues to grow, and his impact on the sport and those around him is undeniable. Keep an eye on Collin Klein; his story is far from over.