Kansas football: Jalon Daniels talks back injury, Week 1 availability
For closer insight on the Jalon Daniels injury, read about his recent interview and what it means for Kansas football ahead of Week 1.
Although the Kansas Jayhawks should have their way with Missouri State in the season opener, a storyline that fans have been monitoring is the status of star quarterback Jalon Daniels.
Injuries have been a recurring issue for the California native. He sustained a shoulder injury against TCU last season, and it took him several weeks to get back to his original form. Throughout Kansas football fall camp, he has been nursing a back ailment that the coaches only refer to as “tightness.”
Despite speculation, the staff is confident that he will suit up on Sep. 1 versus the Bears — and so is he. Daniels participated in a three-minute-long interview during KU’s media day before the conclusion of fall camp, and he disclosed some important information.
“Feeling good, honestly. I’m staying in contact with the trainers and just waiting for them to be able to let me get to go to be able to go back.”
Daniels says it wasn’t a particular play or incident the injury but rather his body getting back in the swing of things as he preps for the regular season.
“It wasn’t nothing specific that triggered it. I think it was just fall camp overall.”
With the season beginning in less than two weeks, it is not the best sign to see Daniels on the sideline while his teammates are on the field. However, he’s been doing his best to stay involved, often standing next to offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki to help him call plays.
When asked if he could suit up if there was a game this upcoming Saturday, the Kansas football signal caller replied: “Absolutely.”
Assuming that the Jayhawks can pounce on their Week 1 opponent — which happens to be an FCS school — the team will likely be able to get him some rest with backup Jason Bean playing the majority of the game. However, it is paramount that he returns for the next game against Illinois which could decide a lot down the stretch.
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