A Defining Offseason for Kansas Football: Inside KU’s Aggressive Portal Reset
Why the Jayhawks’ transfer-heavy approach could shape the future of Lance Leipold’s program.
Kansas football isn’t easing into the offseason — it’s attacking it.
On this episode of Pay Heed, Nick Springer and Kevin Flaherty take a deep dive into KU’s massive transfer portal class and why it represents one of the most pivotal moments of the Lance Leipold era.
Coming off consecutive 5–7 seasons and the end of the Jalon Daniels era, the Jayhawks entered the portal with urgency. The result? Nearly 30 additions, thousands of career snaps of experience, and a roster built not just for 2026, but with an eye toward sustained success beyond it. Rather than chasing portal rankings, Kansas focused on fit, versatility, and experience — especially in the trenches.
The show breaks down how KU reshaped its offense around Andy Kotelnicki’s system, highlighted by key additions at quarterback, running back, and along the offensive line. The arrival of Dylan Edwards adds a true game-breaking element, while competition at quarterback and improved depth up front could determine how quickly the offense finds its footing.
Defensively, the conversation centers on a rebuilt interior line that may quietly be the strength of the team. With proven transfers and young talent stacked behind them, Kansas appears positioned to reload rather than rebuild.
This episode offers a clear-eyed look at why this offseason matters — and why 2026 could be a watershed year for Kansas football.