Transfers Jalen Dupree and Yasin Willis bring explosive power and vision to a revamped Jayhawks backfield, providing a versatile, physical edge for the upcoming 2026 campaign.
Andy Kotelnicki Impressed By Kansas Running Back Duo As Season Nears
Kansas' rebuilt running back room continues to earn praise as the Jayhawks approach the 2026 season.
Associate head coach Andy Kotelnicki highlighted Jalen Dupree and Yasin Willis when discussing the position group, with both transfers bringing different strengths to the Kansas offense.
Dupree had to work his way back after missing significant time during the spring, but Kotelnicki said his recent practices had been his best of camp.
“He had to knock the rust off a little bit in this camp because he missed a lot of spring,” Kotelnicki said. “But I see someone who's got good vision. I see somebody who wants to run really tough and physical.”
Willis has generated significant attention since arriving at Kansas.
The Syracuse transfer gives the Jayhawks a bigger option in the backfield, and his combination of power and quickness has impressed Kotelnicki.
“He's a big back,” Kotelnicki said. “He runs really physical, so he's going to break a ton of arm tackles.”
His size isn't the only thing that has stood out.
“His vision between the tackles and his suddenness at the second and third level has really been impressive and fun to watch,” Kotelnicki said.
Kansas enters the season with a deep collection of running backs rather than one established featured option.
Dupree and Willis are part of a transfer group that also includes Dylan Edwards, giving Kotelnicki multiple skill sets to deploy from the backfield.
That fits with his larger vision for an offense capable of moving different weapons around while maintaining an emphasis on physical football.
With Dupree getting healthier and Willis continuing to impress, the backfield could become one of the deepest areas of Kansas' offense.
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