Kansas football enters the 2026 season without longtime quarterback Jalon Daniels, leaving both a leadership void and an identity question. Junior Cole Ballard, who saw limited action last season, showed flashes of potential, including a touchdown against Iowa State and a strong performance against Kansas State. Without Daniels or Daniel Hishaw Jr. in the backfield, the Jayhawks have a lot to assess ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
LAWRENCE, Kansas – For the first time in over five seasons, Kansas football will lack the veteran leadership of Jalon Daniels under center.