The McAlary Effect

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NCAA Update
Bowl Week 3

National Players of the Week
Defensive: Nebraska LB Riley Van Poppel 7Tkl
Offensive: Nebraska QB Dylan Raiola 24/34 287Yds 3TD 10Car 47Yds 1TD

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NCAA Update
National Championship

[The JZA]

#DameTIme... No wait, that's gimmick infringement

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Kansas 2026 Season Wrap Up
Results, Player Stats and Awards



2026 Kansas Schedule and Results
Week 1 W 27-7 vs UCF
Week 2 W 49-24 vs Missouri
Week 3 L 22-29 vs MTSU
Week 4 W 24-14 @ Western Kentucky
Week 6 W 45-27 @ West Virginia
Week 7 W 23-17 @ Utah
Week 8 L 21-45 @ TCU
Week 9 W 36-23 vs BYU
Week 10 W 36-33 vs Baylor
Week 11 W 31-14 @ Oklahoma State
Week 12 W 45-13 vs Arizona State
Week 13 L 23-21 @ Kansas State
Alamo Bowl W 56-17 vs Illinois

Award Winners
Lombardi Award - DE Greydon Grimes
Best Defensive Player – DE Greydon Grimes
Best Defensive End – DE Greydon Grimes

All Americans
2nd Team All-American
HB Johnny Thompson Jr

All Big XII
Big XII 1st Team
HB Johnny Thompson Jr
OT James Livingston

Big XII 2nd Team
OT Calvin Clements

Big XII Freshman Team
DE Braxton Slater
S Reynaldo Capers
S Nico Brewer

Statistical Leaders
HB Johnny Thompson Jr – 314Car, 1,443 Yards, 111YPG – 1st in Nation
DE Greydon Grimes – 25TFL – Led Nation
DE Greydon Grimes – 14.5 Sacks – Led Big XII

2026 Kansas Player Stats
Passing
Isaiah Marshall – 195/333 58% 2,250Yds 14TD 16Int
Brad Matlock – 29/52 55% 349Yds 3TD 4Int
Adonis Saturday – 11/21 52% 149Yds 2TD

Rushing
Johnny Thompson Jr – 314Car 1,443Yds 4.6Avg 11TD
Avery Muamba – 142Car 880Yds 6.2Avg 1TD
Isaiah Marshall – 112Car 384Yds 3.4Avg 11TD
Harry Stewart III – 38Car 235Yds 6.2Avg 1TD
Glen Jue – 29Car 99Yds 3.4Avg 4TD
Adonis Saturday – 8Car 60Yds 7.5Avg 1TD
Brad Matlock – 3Car -11Yds -3.7Avg

Receiving
Damien Keo – 59Rec 889Yds 15.1Avg 9TD
Avery Muamba – 51Rec 577Yds 11.3Avg 3TD
Jaden Hamm – 44Rec 440Yds 10.0Avg 1TD
Keaton Kubecka – 32Rec 432Yds 13.5Avg 3TD
Johnny Thompson Jr – 17Rec 144Yds 8.5Avg
Rashard Slay – 17Rec 112Yds 6.6Avg 1TD
Harry Stewart III – 8Rec 69Yds 8.6Avg 1TD
Carson Bruhn – 6Rec 78Yds 13.0Avg 1TD

Total Tackles (Top 10)
Roddy Orr – 89
Taylor Davis – 82
Brian Dilworth – 71
Jayvaun Russell – 70
Jalen Todd – 70
Jeremiah Moses – 50
Kaleb Purdy – 50
Greydon Grimes – 49
Tony Terry – 34
Brian Helena – 27

Sacks
Greydon Grimes – 14.5
Tony Terry – 10.0
Roddy Orr – 7.5
Seth Sahara – 6.5
Lyle Carreon – 6.0
Logan Brantley – 4.0
Marcus Calvin – 2.5
Jeremiah Moses – 2.0
Taylor Davis – 1.0
Braxton Slater – 1.0
Dontre Cantrell – 1.0
Terrance Yates – 0.5

Interceptions
Jeremiah Moses - 7
Taylor Davis - 4
Jalen Todd - 4
Jayvaun Russell – 3
Damani Maxson – 3
Brian Dilworth – 2
Kaleb Purdy – 2
Terrence Yates – 1
Reynaldo Capers – 1

Fumbles
Tony Terry – 3FF
Jeremiah Moses – 1FF
Brian Dilworth – 1FF, 2FR
Gerydon Grimes – 1FF, 1FR
Logan Brantley – 1FF
Lyle Carreon – 2FR
Seth Sahara – 1FR

Defensive Touchdowns
Jayvaun Russell – 2
Lyle Carreon – 1
Seth Sahara – 1
Jeremiah Moses – 1
Jalen Todd – 1

Special Teams
Shaq Durham – 14/21FG 45/49XP
Damon Greaves – 81KO 46TB, 32Pt 1,188Yds 43.5Avg 3TB
Morgan Cooke – 18KR 261Yds 14.5Avg, 15PR 92Yds 6.1Avg
Avery Muamba – 13KR 257Yds 19.8Avg, 14PR 92Yds 6.6Avg
Rashard Slay – 1KR 4Yds 4.0Avg
Cameren Jenkins – 1KR 1YD 1.0Avg

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Players Leaving the Program
Kansas Faces a Few Key Departures from Offensive Line and Secondary
By Dee Pinya | @dpinya | January 8, 2027



The Kansas football program is entering a transitional offseason after a series of departures have reshaped its roster. While the departure of veteran right guard Amir Herring was expected due to graduation, the program was blindsided by the loss of starting left tackle Calvin Clements to the transfer portal. Combined with other exits across the roster, the Jayhawks are set to replace two starters on the offensive line and key contributors on defense, marking a pivotal moment for head coach Jordan McAlary and his staff.

Unexpected Turnover on the Offensive Line
Kansas anticipated saying farewell to Herring, who had been a cornerstone of the offensive line. The senior logged 1,040 snaps this past season, allowing just five sacks while anchoring the interior. However, the transfer of left tackle Calvin Clements (1,077 snaps, 8 sacks allowed) was an unexpected blow. Losing Clements leaves a significant gap in the Jayhawks’ offensive front, especially as he was expected to provide veteran stability in 2027.

With these departures, Kansas will enter next season with two new starters on the offensive line. While the coaching staff believes they have capable players ready to step up, including younger linemen who have been developing in the program, the loss of experience and cohesion is significant. McAlary has already hinted that the transfer portal could be a vital resource to rebuild the unit.

Secondary Loses Leadership and Versatility
On defense, the losses of Caleb Purdy and Brian Dilworth leave Kansas with a leadership void in the secondary. Purdy, despite missing five games last season, was a critical piece of the defensive backfield. Over 496 snaps, he contributed 50 tackles and two interceptions, showcasing his playmaking ability.

Dilworth’s departure is particularly significant. The free safety played a staggering 781 snaps in 2026, recording 71 tackles and two interceptions while serving as the unit’s vocal leader. He was responsible for calling pass coverages and making in-game adjustments, making his exit a strategic loss for the Kansas defense. Replacing his football IQ and communication skills will be as crucial as finding a player with his athleticism.

The secondary will also be without Jordan Coleman and Blair Schonhorst, who combined for 25 snaps and four tackles. While these players were not full-time starters, their absence will require additional depth to emerge.

Punter Damon Greaves, who was a steady presence with 43.5 yards per punt and 46 touchbacks on 81 kickoffs, has also completed his time at Kansas, leaving the Jayhawks with only two incoming recruits at the position.

A Time for Resilience and Reinforcements
Kansas faced significant roster turnover last offseason, with 31 players leaving the program due to transfers, exhausted eligibility, and other departures. Despite this, head coach Jordan McAlary and his staff managed to get the most out of the players on hand, earning a reputation as a resilient and resourceful coaching group. Their ability to overcome such roster challenges is a testament to their “next-man-up” mentality and the culture McAlary has instilled.

The staff has expressed confidence in their incoming recruiting class, a group they believe will address some of the program's immediate needs. However, McAlary has also acknowledged that the transfer portal remains a valuable tool. If the right fit presents itself, particularly on the offensive line or in the secondary, Kansas won’t hesitate to bring in experienced players who can make an immediate impact.

“We’ve faced adversity before, and we’ve always responded,” McAlary said recently. “We’re confident in the talent we have, but we also know how important it is to keep growing and adding to this roster.”

The blend of incoming recruits, potential transfers, and the team’s strong developmental track record ensures that Kansas remains poised to build on its recent success, even in the face of roster upheaval.

A Pivotal Offseason Ahead
With major losses on both sides of the ball, Kansas is at a crossroads. The team’s success in 2027 will depend heavily on its ability to replace leadership, experience, and production. Whether it’s through player development or the transfer portal, the Jayhawks must move quickly to solidify their roster and maintain the momentum built under McAlary’s tenure.

Graduation
RG Amir Herring – 1,040DP 5Sck
LE Cole Petrus - 10DP
CB Caleb Purdy – 496DP 50Tkl 2Int
FS Jordan Coleman – 12DP 2Tkl
FS Brian Dilworth – 781DP 71Tkl 2Int
FS Blair Schonhorst – 13DP 2Tkl
P Damon Greaves - 81KO 46TB, 32Pt 1,188Yds 43.5Avg 3TB

Transfers
LT Calvin Clements – 1,077DP 8Sck

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Recruiting Update

Kansas Football Finalizes Strong 2027 Recruiting Class
Head coach Jordan McAlary and his staff have wrapped up a productive recruiting cycle, addressing key needs across the roster with a blend of incoming freshmen and impact transfers. Kansas’ 2027 recruiting class, ranked 45th in the nation with a score of 179.85, reflects a strategic approach to building depth while also adding immediate contributors to the roster.

Impact Signings and Key Additions
Transfer FS David Tripp (Kentucky)
Kansas secured David Tripp, a speedy safety with a knack for tackling and significant upside. Tripp’s athleticism and high football IQ make him a promising addition to the secondary, where the Jayhawks were looking to replenish depth and versatility.

Transfer TE Trey’Dez Green (LSU)
A marquee addition to the offense, Trey’Dez Green brings an exciting blend of size and speed to Lawrence. At 6’7”, Green is a matchup nightmare with the ability to stretch the field and contribute in the red zone. His athleticism and experience from LSU make him a potential game-changer for Kansas’ passing attack.

Transfer OT Sean Herman (Iowa)
Kansas bolstered its offensive line with the addition of Iowa transfer Sean Herman. A strong pass blocker with Big Ten experience, Herman addresses a critical need in the trenches and should provide much-needed stability up front for quarterback Isaiah Marshall.

Transfer WR Jared Marciano (Penn State)
Jared Marciano adds a dynamic element to the receiving corps. Standing 6’2” with excellent speed, the Penn State transfer is expected to provide a deep-threat option and help elevate a passing game that struggled at times during the 2026 season.

CB Thomas Schilling (Houston, TX)
In a recruiting win, Kansas flipped Thomas Schilling from UTSA. Rated as the #56 cornerback in the nation, Schilling hails from talent-rich Houston, Texas, and brings strong coverage skills to the Jayhawks’ secondary. His signing strengthens a unit that faced significant departures this offseason.

DE Kareem Sarria (St. Louis, MO)
Kareem Sarria, a three-star edge rusher from St. Louis, brings potential as a disruptive force on the defensive line. His quickness and motor make him a valuable addition to a group looking to develop more consistent pass-rush pressure.

WR Jon Tobin (Oklahoma)
Jon Tobin, a strong three-star wideout from Oklahoma, adds depth to Kansas’ receiving corps. Known for his physicality and reliable hands, Tobin has the tools to develop into a key contributor over time.

DE Eric Heurtelou (Oklahoma)
Another three-star defensive end, Eric Heurtelou brings versatility and athleticism to the defensive line. His upside as both a run defender and pass rusher makes him a well-rounded addition to Kansas’ defensive front.

Class Overview and Outlook
This recruiting class represents a strong step forward for the Jayhawks. The combination of high-upside freshmen like David Tripp and Thomas Schilling, coupled with experienced transfers like Trey’Dez Green and Sean Herman, addresses immediate needs while setting the stage for sustained success. McAlary and his staff were strategic in filling gaps at critical positions, particularly on the offensive line, secondary, and defensive front.

With a class ranked 45th nationally, Kansas continues to solidify its presence as a program on the rise. The added talent gives the Jayhawks the pieces they need to build on the momentum from the 2026 season and push for even greater success in 2027.

“We’re excited about this group,” McAlary said in a statement. “They fit our culture and bring the talent and work ethic we need to keep moving forward. I can’t wait to see what they do in our program.”

Recruiting Class (Listed by National Ranking)
##	POS	NAME		Class	NATL	STATE	POS	Home	HT	WT
01	TE	Trey'Dez Green		TR(SO)	89	4	3	Jackson, LA (LSU)	6'7"	226
02	FS	David Tripp		TR(FR)	100	4	12	Bowling Green, KY (Kentucky)	5'10"	215
03	RT	Sean Herman		TR(SO)	152	3	4	Rock Valley, IA (Iowa)	6'7"	299
04	WR	Jared Marciano		TR(FR)	263	10	23	Newark, NJ (Penn State)	6'2"	193
05	CB	Immanuel Jones		HS	312	44	26	Forney, TX	6'1"	177
06	MLB	Tracey Sledge		HS	456	6	19	Saint Louis, MO	6'2"	238
07	CB	Kevin Genus		HS	464	66	45	Fort Worth, TX	6'3"	178
08	P	Anthony Newson		HS	553	48	2	Cartersville, GA	6'5"	220
09	WR	Dominick Beard		JUCO(SO)	606	20	73	Boutte, LA	6'5"	200
10	FS	Emanuel Manuel		HS	625	89	17	Mount Enterprise, TX	5'10"	211
11	CB	Thomas Schilling		HS	675	100	56	Houston, TX	6'0"	172
12	ROLB	Juan Kay		HS	714	109	37	Frisco, TX	6'1"	233
13	HB	Zach Boyett		HS	863	12	77	Kansas City, MO	5'9"	198
14	WR	Sean McGarrity		HS	917	28	106	Tickfaw, LA	6'1"	211
15	RE	Darrius Capps		HS	1089	9	74	Wichita, KS	6'2"	264
16	CB	Josh Alvarado		HS	1096	163	88	Humble, TX	6'1"	180
17	SS	Marco Lester		HS	1170	37	30	Alexandria, LA	5'10"	217
18	FS	Paul Payne		HS	1240	19	36	Saint Charles, MO	5'10"	198
19	WR	Jake Sharpe		JUCO(JR)	1292	17	145	Tulsa, OK	6'4"	195
20	ATH	Alex Connor		HS	1481	13	82	Olathe, KS	6'5"	234
21	RE	Kareem Sarria		HS	1606	27	97	Saint Louis, MO	6'2"	267
22	WR	Jon Tobin		HS	1663	21	181	Yukon, OK	6'2"	203
23	RE	Eric Heurtelou		HS	1863	25	106	Jones, OK	6'3"	278
24	P	Rakkim Darby		HS	2108	31	38	Saint Louis, MO	6'4"	213

Recruits Lost (Listed by National Ranking)
##	POS	NAME		Class	NATL	STATE	POS	Home	HT	WT	Signed
01	ATH	Diego Maramarosa		HS	30	5	1	Brock, TX	6'1"	208	Georgia
02	RT	Stephen Chancey		HS	290	1	21	Wamego, KS	6'4"	293	Iowa State
03	DT	Nick Ballage		HS	427	2	26	Wichita, KS	6'4"	304	Nebraska
04	ATH	Tyler Jones		HS	574	4	25	Wichita, KS	6'2"	225	Tulsa
05	ROLB	Jordan Roper		HS	590	10	32	Malvern, PA	6'1"	245	Bowling Green
06	DT	George Boldonado		HS	616	9	34	Saint Louis, MO	6'3"	282	Missouri
07	RG	Lee Arcuri		JUCO(SO)	671	98	41	Trophy Club, TX	6'3"	334	SMU
08	MLB	Tony Street		HS	765	8	40	Choctaw, OK	6'2"	227	Texas State
09	DT	Jamerson Sills		HS	868	6	52	Overland Park, KS	6'3"	309	Kansas State
10	RE	Anton Terrill		HS	915	13	62	Saint Louis, MO	6'0"	233	Arkansas State
11	RE	Deandre Steele		HS	951	7	65	Lawrence, KS	6'3"	291	Kansas State
12	DT	David Clabo		HS	1062	7	65	Fayetteville, AR	6'5"	299	Arkansas
13	LT	Manny Puente		HS	1277	21	48	Saint Louis. MO	6'6"	304	Missouri
14	MLB	Deandre Rourke		HS	1330	19	66	Owasso, OK	5'11"	225	Tulsa

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Kansas spring practice news and notes
Kansas announces three additional players leaving the program
By Dee Pinya | @dpinya | March 17, 2027

The transfer of Calvin Clements will without a doubt be the biggest loss the Jayhawks have to find a replacement for due to an outgoing transfer but the coaching staff announced that three others have left the program as well.

Calvin Clements (OT): One of the most significant departures for Kansas this offseason, Clements started every game in 2025 and 2026 and played a pivotal role in 2024. His decision to transfer to Ohio State was driven by aspirations of competing for a national championship and boosting his NFL draft stock. The Jayhawks will feel his absence most acutely, as he was a cornerstone of the offensive line. To fill the void at left tackle, Kansas plans to shift James Livingston from right tackle, with Colby Heimburger also in contention for the position. If Heimburger earns the job, Livingston would likely return to the right side, where Damian Hixon, Sean Herman, and Eric Yearby are also competing for time.

Carson Bruhn (TE): Bruhn opted to transfer after Kansas brought in Trey'Dez Green as a high-profile tight end addition. Bruhn, who posted six catches for 78 yards and a touchdown in 2026, believed he had secured the role of TE2 and wasn’t interested in a position battle. He landed at Ball State, where he is expected to step in as the starting tight end, providing him the opportunity to be a key contributor in the offense.

Cole Ballard (QB): A graduate transfer, Ballard left Kansas to join Bowling Green. Although he didn’t see the field during his time in Lawrence, his move is less about playing time and more about returning closer to home and preparing for a future in coaching. While his chances of earning playing time remain slim, Ballard’s leadership and football IQ could serve him well as he transitions to life after playing.

Jamie Hill (WR): Hill, a redshirt in 2026, chose to leave Kansas to walk on at Florida State, a school he had initially hoped to be recruited by before committing to the Jayhawks. While his path to playing time remains uncertain, Hill’s decision reflects a desire to be part of a program closer to his original aspirations.

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Kansas spring practice news and notes
Kansas Football Spring Practice Update: Offensive Focus
By Dee Pinya | @dpinya | March 20, 2027



I attended the open portions of Kansas' first week of spring practice. Here are a few observations I made, primarily on the offensive side of the ball.

Quarterback:
Isaiah Marshall enters the spring with a lot to prove after a mixed 2026 season in which he threw for 14 touchdowns but was hampered by 16 interceptions. His 11 rushing touchdowns highlight his athleticism, which the coaching staff sees as a unique strength. However, Marshall’s starting role is far from secure, with Brad Matlock pushing him hard. Matlock is a more traditional pocket passer, with better accuracy, particularly on deep throws, though Marshall has the edge in arm strength. Adonis Saturday remains a developmental option, lacking Marshall’s mobility and Matlock’s precision.

Running Back:
Johnny Thompson Jr. is coming off a historic season as the nation’s leading rusher. However, Kansas plans to manage his workload in 2027, paving the way for Avery Muamba to take on an expanded role. Muamba has been a standout in spring practice, showcasing improved speed and elusiveness. Tyree LaBelle has also made strides in strength and may see more snaps, while Glen Jue and Harry Stewart III are expected to maintain their current level of involvement.

Wide Receiver:
This group remains a focal point for improvement, with Damien Keo and Rashard Slay anchoring the unit. Keaton Kubecka and Austin Dogins are expected to see increased targets as the coaching staff seeks more consistent production. Newcomer Jared Marciano’s elite speed has turned heads in camp, and the team is exploring ways to utilize his explosiveness. Dominick Beard has also impressed, using his 6'5" frame to create mismatches downfield.

Tight End:
Jaden Hamm is looking to rebound after a disappointing 2026 campaign in which he managed just one touchdown. Incoming transfer Trey'Dez Green has been a revelation, displaying a combination of speed and size at 6'7" that makes him a nightmare for defenders. Green’s potential to stretch the field has brought new energy to the position.

Offensive Line:
The offensive line faces significant turnover this spring. James Livingston is transitioning to left tackle to replace the departed Calvin Clements, while Carter Lavrusky and Alex Ball are set to return at left guard and center, respectively. On the right side, Martin Rudock has emerged as the leader at right guard, though Brian Dingle’s superior pass-blocking skills keep the competition open. Right tackle remains the biggest question mark, with Damian Hixon, Sean Herman, Eric Yearby, and Colby Heimburger all battling for the starting spot. Coach McAlary and his staff are eager to see one of these players solidify the position as camp progresses.

Kansas’ offense is a mix of proven talent and emerging potential, with the spring providing critical opportunities for players to claim starting roles. As the team gears up for the 2027 season, the focus remains on minimizing turnovers, balancing workloads, and developing depth across all positions.

[James]

Heck of a season for season 1.

Gotta build on the momentum.

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Kansas spring practice news and notes
Kansas Football Spring Practice Update: Defensive Focus
By Dee Pinya | @dpinya | March 27, 2027



I attended the open portions of Kansas' second week of spring practice. Here are a few observations I made, primarily on the defensive side of the ball.

Defensive Line:
Kansas boasts a formidable edge presence with defensive ends Greydon Grimes and Tony Terry returning after strong 2026 campaigns. Grimes, coming off a dominant 14.5-sack season, is looking to further cement his reputation as one of the top pass rushers in the Big 12. Terry, a consistent force on the other side, provides excellent balance to the line. Depth at defensive end looks solid, with Hugh Busby and Braxton Slater showing notable improvement in spring practice. Lyle Carreon, who had six sacks in just nine games before a torn pectoral sidelined him, continues to work through recovery and hopes to contribute later this season.

Inside, defensive tackles Marcus Calvin and T.J. Harbor are looking to elevate their game. While both were serviceable in 2026, their roles were often limited in passing situations. This season, the coaching staff aims to develop their all-around impact and keep them on the field for more snaps.

Linebacker:
Kansas features a versatile and deep linebacker corps. Roddy Orr and Jayvaun Russell were among the team’s leading tacklers last season, anchoring the middle of the defense. Seth Sahara emerged late in the year as a pass-rushing specialist, tallying 6.5 sacks. The coaching staff plans to rotate as many as seven players at the position, taking advantage of the unit’s depth and varied skill sets. Expect Orr and Russell to remain key cogs while Sahara continues to be a threat in blitz packages.

Defensive Back:
The secondary faces significant turnover following the departures of Kaleb Purdy and Brian Dilworth. At safety, the competition to replace Dilworth has been one of the most intriguing battles of spring camp. Transfer David Tripp and Reynoldo Capers are vying for the spot, with Capers showcasing superior speed and agility while Tripp offers more physicality and strength. Taylor Davis returns as the starter at the other safety position, providing stability.

At cornerback, Jeremiah Moses appears locked in as one starter. The other spot remains up for grabs, with Jalen Todd, Terrance Yates, and Damani Maxson all making their cases. The coaching staff is looking for consistency and playmaking ability to solidify the position before the season opener.

Kansas’ defense is building on its strengths while addressing areas of transition, particularly in the secondary. The spring provides a critical opportunity for newcomers and returning players to carve out roles, with a focus on maintaining pressure up front and solidifying the back end.