Jayhawks hone technique and build strength, focusing on deeper rotations and proven transfers to make crucial plays this season.
Kansas Football Head Coach Lance Leipold Emphasizes Depth, Development As Jayhawks Open Spring Practice
As Kansas football opened spring practice with a retooled roster and several new faces, head coach Lance Leipold said the early returns have been encouraging, pointing to both physical development and a smoother-than-expected transition for newcomers.
“We have as many new players as we have; there’s a lot to orient them into,” Leipold said. “All that to me has gone very smoothly, probably better than anticipated.”
The Jayhawks adjusted their spring structure, prioritizing technique and limiting early full-contact work. Leipold said the approach was designed with long-term health and late-season performance in mind.
“We wanted to be a better, healthier football team down the stretch,” he said.
Kansas also benefited from an extended offseason in the weight room, something Leipold believes is already paying off through noticeable gains in strength and body composition.
Depth, particularly on defense, is one of the early storylines. Leipold expects improved rotation to help address issues that surfaced in close losses last season.
“I think we’re going to have more depth at certain positions,” he said. “What I hope that translates to is we rotate more during the game.”
That added experience has been bolstered by the transfer portal, where Kansas targeted players with proven college production.
“You’re bringing in older players,” Leipold said. “You’re evaluating guys who have already done it instead of projecting.”
Among the position groups drawing attention is linebacker, where Leipold described a deep and athletic unit still sorting out roles.
Offensively, transfers like Dylan Edwards have added speed, versatility and explosiveness. Leipold said Edwards has quickly adapted while showcasing a dynamic skill set.
“He’s very talented,” Leipold said. “Our fans are going to enjoy watching him play.”
Quarterback remains unsettled heading into the spring. Leipold said the competition will be evaluated daily, with no timeline set for naming a starter.
“We grade everything,” he said. “But we haven’t discussed when we’ll name a starter.”
Ultimately, Leipold emphasized that Kansas is focused on refining details rather than overhauling its identity after a season defined by narrow margins.
“The difference between winning and losing is very, very slim,” he said. “We’ve got to find a way to be on the right side of that.”
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