A New Era of Defensive Leadership
Kansas is betting on a fortified defense for the 2026 season, aiming to erase the lapses that plagued the team in 2025. With a core of experienced returnees and a coaching staff led by second‑year head coach D.K. McDonald, the Jayhawks hope to transform a unit that was once described as the biggest flaw into a reliable engine of play.
At the heart of the revival is linebacker Trey Lathan, who capped the previous season with 86 combined tackles, seven tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks and an interception while earning a captaincy. His blend of leadership and gritty play is expected to set the tone for the entire defensive unit.
Cornerback Jalen Todd brings a Pro Football Focus grade of 70.7 from his sophomore campaign, positioning him as the top cornerback on the roster and the primary boundary defender tasked with shadowing the opponent’s best receivers.
Adding to the edge rush, Leroy Harris III arrives from Chattanooga as an FCS All‑American who posted 4.5 sacks in his debut year in Lawrence. His elite pass‑rushing skill set is projected to clog running lanes and limit explosive plays, giving the defense a more balanced attack.
Head coach D.K. McDonald, now in his second year, has made addressing defensive shortcomings a central theme of his preparation. His strategy emphasizes disciplined gap control and leveraging the unique strengths of Lathan, Todd and Harris to create a more cohesive front.
The convergence of these three players is being heralded as the most impactful defensive lineup returning for Kansas in 2026. Their combined experience, talent and willingness to embrace a leadership role suggest that the Jayhawks could finally translate preseason optimism into on‑field dominance.