Once the Kansas football season officially concluded, the Jayhawks' coaching staff relentlessly prioritized the transfer portal. KU reeled in 17 newcomers, securing one of the best portal classes in the country. In fact, Rivals ranks it as the ninth best nationally above premier programs like Michigan, Oregon, and Alabama.
While the 2024 squad was relatively senior-heavy, head coach Lance Leipold filled several roster voids to bolster the Jayhawks. Fans hope that the transfer additions can lead the team to a better outcome next season. These three position groups saw the most improvement in the winter transfer portal window.
1. Wide Receiver
Kansas faced a serious challenge after losing its top three wide receivers to graduation, leaving quarterback Jalon Daniels with a depleted group of targets. However, the Jayhawks quickly reloaded by adding three new wideouts to the roster. Leading the group is Alabama transfer Emmanuel Henderson, a former top-50 high school recruit who has the potential to emerge as the team's WR1 next season.
The Jayhawks also brought in Ball State's Cam Pickett, who posted 49 receptions for 528 yards in 2024, and Albany's Levi Wentz to bolster the receiving corps. The only departure was Jarred Sample, a member of KU's 2023 recruiting class who did not see any game action.
2. Offensive Line
With the program's all-time leading rusher heading to the NFL, the Jayhawks needed to improve the offensive line for Daniel Hishaw Jr. Bryce Cabeldue and Michael Ford ran out of eligibility, while Logan Brown declared for the NFL Draft. Fortunately, Kansas made it a point to go after talent in the trenches.
The Jayhawks made six additions, including North Texas interior lineman Tyler Mercer, who was one of the best true freshmen linemen in college football. Others include UCLA transfer Tavake Tuikolovatu and Tulsa transfer Jack Tanner, players who could make an impact in the future. With Bryce Foster leading the way, KU could have one of the better lines in the Big 12 next year.
3. Cornerback
Like the aforementioned two positions, the Jayhawks lost plenty of talent at cornerback to graduation. All-Big 12 players Cobee Bryant and Mello Dotson were pillars of the Jayhawk defense, so Kansas needed to replace their talent. Leipold did so by bringing in Alabama corner Jahlil Hurley and veteran defensive back DJ Graham, who quickly strengthened a weak secondary.