5 Jayhawks set to break out for Kansas football in 2023

RB Daniel Hishaw Jr.

An injury-riddled career has derailed most of his time at Kansas, but Hishaw is one of the most talented tailbacks in the conference. In five games played, he averaged 6 yards per carry last year, totaling 357 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns — most notably this electric catch and run versus Duke.

It’s not often that the Jayhawks have as much depth in a position as they do at running back. Hishaw and KU’s starter, Devin Neal, were listed on the Doak Walker Award Watch List, awarded to the nation’s best running back. Additionally, KU has a former 1,000-yard rusher sitting third on the depth chart in Dylan McDuffie.

Although it’s unlikely that Hishaw jumps Neal as the team’s starter, he will be a tremendous asset to the offense. We could see a two-headed monster between the two, similar to Pooka Williams and Khalil Herbert a few years back.

As is the case for several other Kansas football players, staying on the field will be key for Hishaw. If he can avoid injuries — which he has done during spring and fall camp — expect to hear his name called quite often in 2023.