Kansas Takes a Risk on Division II Offensive Lineman: Is This the Future of KU Football?

In a move that caught many by surprise, Kansas football made an intriguing late-night addition to its roster on Friday, securing a commitment from offensive lineman DeAndre Harper, a transfer from Northwest Missouri State. The 6-foot-6, 305-pound lineman’s recruitment had flown under the radar until now, but his arrival could be a significant boost for the Jayhawks’ offensive line in 2025.

Harper, who hails from Omaha North High School in Nebraska, had been on the radar of several FCS and Group of Five schools following his standout freshman season at Northwest Missouri State. After entering the transfer portal on December 7th, following a coaching change at Northwest Missouri State, Harper saw offers come in from the likes of Louisiana Tech, San Diego State, and Wyoming. However, it was Kansas that managed to land the rising star, adding a key piece to its already strong offensive line.

The Jayhawks’ offensive line in 2024 was one of the standout units on the roster, and with first-year position coach Daryl Agpalsa at the helm, it’s clear that Kansas is committed to keeping that trend going. Harper, who was a second-team all-state selection in high school, is expected to bring his physicality and potential to an offensive line that will need to reload heading into next season.

“We had a great connection from when Coach A recruited me out of high school, and it was easy to rekindle that on my visit,” Harper said to Jon Kirby of JayhawkSlant.com. “Coach A is a great coach who knows how to get guys to the next level, and I’m excited to work with him again.”

Kansas is entering the 2025 season with some questions on the offensive line, particularly at the tackle position. With Bryce Cabeldue graduating and Logan Brown heading to the NFL, along with the departure of reserve Dre Doiron to the professional ranks, the Jayhawks will need to reload and find new faces to step up. Harper could be part of that solution, offering depth and potential at a critical position.

While Harper is the first transfer addition to the offensive line, he’s the second offensive commit overall for Kansas, following the addition of former Iowa running back Leshon Williams. The Jayhawks have been busy in the transfer portal, and their recruitment of Northwest Missouri State players may not be done just yet, as Kansas has also shown interest in Bearcats defensive end Langden Kitchen.

In the guard position, Kansas returns starter Kobe Baynes, but with Michael Ford Jr. exhausting his eligibility, the unit could be in line for some changes. Incoming recruits and younger players could be in the mix to take on larger roles, and Harper’s addition gives Kansas more flexibility and talent as it looks to reload for the 2025 season.

As Kansas continues to build its roster for next season, Harper’s commitment represents a smart and proactive move by head coach Lance Leipold and his staff. The Jayhawks have made it clear that they’re serious about strengthening their offensive line, and with the addition of a talented young player like Harper, the program is well-positioned to stay competitive in the Big 12 next year.