The Kansas Jayhawks have identified Cole Ballard and Isaiah Marshall as the two leading contenders for the starting quarterback position as the 2026 season approaches.
Depth as a safeguard
Coordinator Jim Zebrowski has repeatedly stressed that a reliable backup is essential to avoid offensive disruption if injuries strike, recalling past seasons when the team’s momentum faltered after a single starter went down.
Enter Chase Jenkins, a transfer from Rice who brings a versatile skill set and a track record of adapting to new systems.
Although limited by a spring injury, Jenkins has returned with noticeable physical development and a stronger grasp of the Jayhawks’ playbook, qualities that Zebrowski believes will accelerate his integration.
Zebrowski envisions Jenkins not just as a safety net but as a player who can step in and execute complex reads, leveraging his experience at multiple positions to keep the offense fluid.
Sportswriter Jordan Guskey notes that Jenkins’ primary focus is on contributing wherever needed, a mindset that aligns with the program’s emphasis on collective success over individual accolades.