The Kansas Jayhawks are looking to rebound from a 5‑7 finish in 2025, setting their sights on a stronger 2026 season as Big 12 media days approach.
Intense Competition Across the Board
The roster has been reshaped with several high‑quality transfers, including Bryson Canty, Cam Pickett, Emmanuel Henderson Jr. and Levi Wentz, while returning standouts such as Keaton Kubecka bring valuable experience from Andy Kotelnicki’s offense.
At right tackle, Jack Tanner must fight for a starting spot, and defensive lineman Marcus Calvin faces pressure to develop as the line also welcomes new faces like Jibriel Conde, Tre’von McAlpine, Kevin Oatis and Eamon Smalls.
Safety Taylor Davis, who started 11 games in 2025 and recorded 41 tackles with one interception, now must adjust to a revamped secondary that features transfer Jaden Harris from Georgia and Miami, as well as competition from Lyrik Rawls and other newcomers.
Coach Lance Leipold stresses that the quarterback battle and the performance of star players will be decisive, but the depth added across the squad gives the Jayhawks a realistic chance to improve on last season’s record.