The Kansas Jayhawks football team, under the leadership of head coach Lance Leipold, is facing significant challenges in player retention as the offseason approaches. While the team managed to lose only nine scholarship players to the transfer portal last year—none of whom were projected to play key roles next season—the current offseason paints a different picture. With the transfer portal opening officially on January 2, 2024, seven players have already declared their intentions to leave, including safety Lyrik Rawls and linebacker Jon Jon Kamara, both of whom were expected to start.
The departures of Rawls and Kamara are particularly concerning. Rawls was recognized as a strong contributor in the Big 12 and one of the team’s best open-field tacklers. Kamara, a promising redshirt freshman, showcased impressive athleticism and was poised for a significant role in the upcoming season. Their exits signal potential underlying issues within the program, especially as the Jayhawks have struggled, finishing with a 5-7 record in both of the last two seasons.
The defensive unit, which faced challenges under first-year coordinator D.K. McDonald, will require immediate attention as Leipold and his staff look to fill the gaps left by departing players. While the losses of running back Johnny Thompson Jr. and safety Damani Maxson may not have substantial impact—given their limited expected playing time—the trend of key players leaving raises questions about the program’s direction.
As the offseason progresses, the Jayhawks will need to address not only the losses of Rawls and Kamara but also the graduation of seniors like Dean Miller, Justice Finkley, and DJ Withers from the defensive line. The situation calls for strategic recruitment from the transfer portal, particularly to secure talent capable of stepping into starting roles.
Monitoring the decisions of remaining key players will be crucial. Sophomores and juniors such as wide receiver Cam Pickett, linebacker Trey Lathan, and quarterbacks Isaiah Marshall and Cole Ballard are all vital pieces of the puzzle. If more impactful players choose to depart, the Jayhawks could face a difficult offseason, complicating their ability to rebuild and improve in the coming year.
The landscape of college football has evolved, making player retention a pressing issue for many programs. While Lance Leipold and his staff have historically managed retention well, ongoing struggles on the field may make it increasingly difficult to keep key talent in Lawrence. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the transfer portal opens, anticipating further announcements that could shape the future of Kansas football.
