Is Cobee Bryant playing vs. Houston? Injury update on Kansas Jayhawks star CB

It appeared as though Kansas football would finally break out of its slump in its last game against Arizona State, but the Jayhawks' defense collapsed in the closing moments and surrendered a go-ahead touchdown in the final seconds to hand the Sun Devils the victory.

Not only did Lance Leipold and Co. leave Tempe with an uninspiring 1-5 record, but arguably his best defensive player was removed from the contest after sustaining what appeared to be a leg/knee injury in the fourth quarter. Cobee Bryant is at risk of being ruled out for the first time since his freshman year this Saturday vs. Houston.

When Leipold met with reporters on Wednesday, his outlook for Bryant didn't sound very hopeful. Apparently, KU's star cornerback has yet to practice in over a week:

Cobee Bryant's status remains uncertain for Kansas football homecoming

"He’s probably highly questionable at this time. He’s doing a little bit but has not taken any team reps in over a week."

- Lance Leipold on Cobee Bryant

Bryant looked to be in serious pain when he went down and exited the game against ASU. Despite Kansas having an additional week of rest following the bye, the Preseason All-Big 12 First Team selection still has not made his way back onto the practice field with the rest of his squad. This certainly spells trouble for his status a few days from now and potentially in the coming weeks.

While Bryant has not played up to par in 2024 — his brutal mistakes at the end of the first half vs. UNLV and Arizona State cost the Jayhawks points — he has undoubtedly been the best player in the defensive back room for three consecutive seasons. He has totaled 20 tackles, 0.5 sacks, and one interception through six games.

Depth is thin at cornerback in Lawrence, and the defense has already struggled immensely as of late. This injury could be a massive blow for the Jayhawks. If Bryant were to miss KU's homecoming meeting, Mello Dotson would step up as CB1 and former LSU Tiger Damarius McGhee could fill in during his absence.