Kansas football roster news as transfer portal opens in 2026

The latest updates on Kansas football highlight a period of transition, as the team navigates coaching changes, player transfers and quarterback considerations. These articles discuss movements within the program that will affect how the Jayhawks look next season.

In recent news, former offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki returns to Kansas, reuniting with head coach Lance Leipold. Kotelnicki, who left for Penn State in 2023, aims to rejuvenate the Jayhawks' offense.

What will that offense look like? The biggest question is at quarterback, where the Jayhawks have two apparent options for the job unless they choose to add another name in the transfer portal. The defense will also need some help, with Trey Lathan becoming the fourth linebacker to depart via the portal.

Kansas Jayhawks quarterback David McComb (16) warms up during practice at the newly renovated David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium on Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, in Lawrence, Kansas. By Emily Curiel

NO. 1: KANSAS JAYHAWKS ARE LOSING POTENTIAL QUARTERBACK OF THE FUTURE TO TRANSFER PORTAL

Kansas Jayhawks quarterback David McComb — a potential candidate to be head coach Lance Leipold’s starter under center in 2026 — will enter the transfer portal. | Published December 19, 2025 | Read Full Story by Shreyas Laddha

Head coach Lance Leipold of the Kansas Jayhawks talks with quarterback Jalon Daniels #6 against the Utah Utes in the second half at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium on November 28, 2025 in Lawrence, Kansas. By Ed Zurga

NO. 2: WHAT DOES LANCE LEIPOLD WANT FROM NEXT SEASON’S KU QUARTERBACK? START HERE...

For the first time in a long time, it’s unclear who will start at quarterback for the Kansas football team. | Published January 1, 2026 | Read Full Story by Shreyas Laddha

Avery Johnson #2 of the Kansas State Wildcats runs for a touchdown against Trey Lathan #4 of the Kansas Jayhawks during the second half at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium on October 25, 2025 in Lawrence, Kansas. By Jay Biggerstaff

NO. 3: A 4TH KANSAS JAYHAWKS LINEBACKER ANNOUNCES HIS INTENT TO ENTER TRANSFER PORTAL

Kansas Jayhawks linebacker Trey Lathan will enter the NCAA transfer portal after spending one football season in Lawrence. | Published January 1, 2026 | Read Full Story by Shreyas Laddha

Penn State offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki watches players warm up for a game on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025. By Abby Drey

NO. 4: ‘CAN’T WAIT’: KANSAS JAYHAWKS BRING BACK OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR ANDY KOTELNICKI

He’s back. | Published January 2, 2026 | Read Full Story by Shreyas Laddha

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.