Kansas football has undergone remarkable transformations under the leadership of fourth-year head coach Lance Leipold. Formerly at the helm of Buffalo, Leipold has steered the Jayhawks from the bottom of Power 5 football to becoming one of the most promising teams in the NCAA, fundamentally altering the culture and long-term prospects of the program.
A key aspect of Leipold’s success has been his adept handling of recruiting, consistently assembling strong classes that have elevated the program’s standing. Notably, he secured the program’s highest-rated class in the rankings era, highlighted by the acquisition of top talent like EDGE Deshawn Warner. Kevin Flaherty, a member of the KC Sports Network podcast and former 247 Sports beat reporter, recently commended Leipold’s recruiting prowess during a discussion on K-Nation, emphasizing how it has translated into tangible on-field improvements.
Flaherty’s sentiments echo the sentiments of many Jayhawk supporters, who have witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by previous coaches like Charlie Weis, David Beaty, and Les Miles. Unlike the past, when recruiting efforts often fell short of addressing on-field issues, Flaherty highlighted the significant shift in the recruitment landscape under Leipold’s guidance. The change is stark, especially when compared to a decade ago when player turnover was frequent due to personal disputes.
Yet, Leipold’s approach to bolstering the roster extends beyond traditional high school signings. He has strategically utilized the transfer portal, securing impactful additions such as Dominick Puni and Austin Booker, both of whom earned All-Big 12 First Team honors and were selected in the 2024 NFL Draft. Additionally, players like Mike Novitsky and Lonnie Phelps have also made significant contributions after transferring.
Even more crucial than external additions, Leipold has prioritized player retention, persuading key contributors to remain with the program despite tempting offers elsewhere. Noteworthy examples include Devin Neal, Jalon Daniels, and Cobee Bryant, who have opted to stay and contribute to the foundation of Kansas football’s resurgence.
Looking ahead, the trajectory of Kansas football appears brighter than ever, fueled by a healthy roster and acclaimed recruiting classes. While the ultimate outcome remains uncertain, there is a palpable sense of optimism surrounding the program, signaling a potential turning point in its history.
