Hailey
Derrick Salley Jr. is entering the next phase of his football journey with confidence, focus, and a clear goal: help Kansas State build a winning future. After a dominant junior college season, Salley believes he is arriving in Manhattan at exactly the right moment.
The 6-foot-4, 216-pound wide receiver made national noise during the NJCAA Division I Football Playoffs, helping No. 1 Hutchinson Community College defeat No. 4 Northwest Mississippi 27–0 in the semifinal round.
In that game, Salley recorded seven receptions for 84 yards, consistently winning matchups against elite defensive backs and showing why he is considered one of the top junior college receivers in the country.
The victory extended Hutchinson’s winning streak to 15 consecutive games and sent the program to the national championship game.
A Record-Setting Junior College Career
Salley’s impact at Hutchinson goes far beyond one playoff performance. Over his career, he climbed into the school record books, ranking eighth all-time in receiving yards (1,126), ninth in receptions (68), and fifth in touchdown catches (12). His ability to score quickly and often separated him from his peers.
During the season, Salley delivered three 100-yard games in a five-game stretch, including performances of 106 yards, 146 yards, and 135 yards.
His explosiveness earned him Jayhawk Conference Co-Offensive Player of the Year, and he made history as the first Hutchinson player ever to record three separate three-touchdown games in a single season.
Despite being ranked the No. 1 junior college wide receiver, Salley has remained grounded. He has repeatedly said that rankings and attention mean little compared to winning championships and developing as a complete player.
Signing With Kansas State Amid Change
Salley officially signed with Kansas State on signing day, celebrating the moment virtually with his parents. Shortly after, the program experienced a major transition when longtime head coach Chris Klieman retired. For many recruits, a coaching change can create uncertainty, but Salley stayed committed.
He trusted the foundation of the program and believed the culture would remain intact. That confidence was reinforced when Collin Klein was named head coach.
Why Collin Klein’s Vision Matters
Klein is no stranger to Kansas State fans. A former Wildcat quarterback and 2012 Heisman Trophy finalist, Klein returned to Manhattan after serving as an offensive coordinator at the Power Five level. His recent offenses have been known for balance, creativity, and getting the ball into the hands of playmakers.
Salley has spoken positively about Klein’s offensive approach, pointing to how wide receivers thrive in systems that value spacing, timing, and explosive plays. He sees an opportunity not just to contribute, but to grow into a featured role.
Building Chemistry With Avery Johnson
Another key factor in Salley’s excitement is quarterback Avery Johnson. Johnson has already thrown for 5,576 career yards and 48 touchdowns, starting 26 games over three seasons. He has recorded multiple 300-yard passing games and is known for extending plays and pushing the ball downfield.
Salley believes his size, catch radius, and physical style pair perfectly with Johnson’s skill set, creating the potential for a dynamic connection in the Wildcats’ offense.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Player | Derrick Salley Jr. |
| Position | Wide Receiver |
| Height / Weight | 6’4”, 216 lbs |
| Junior College | Hutchinson Community College |
| Semifinal Result | 27–0 win vs. Northwest Mississippi |
| Season Honors | Jayhawk Conference Co-Offensive Player of the Year |
| Career Stats | 1,126 yards, 68 catches, 12 TDs |
| Signed With | Kansas State Wildcats |
| Head Coach | Collin Klein |
| Quarterback | Avery Johnson |
Derrick Salley Jr. arrives at Kansas State with production, confidence, and a championship mindset. His junior college career proved he can dominate against top competition, and his response to coaching change shows maturity beyond the stat sheet.
As Kansas State enters a new era under Collin Klein, Salley is not just joining a program—he is ready to be a key part of building something great.