Watch former Kansas football QB Jason Bean sling his first NFL touchdown pass

While many players deserve credit for the growth of Kansas football, quarterback Jason Bean might be the Jayhawks' most essential contributor over the past few years. He filled in for Jalon Daniels under center as he battled injuries in consecutive seasons, and Bean was the catalyst to one of the best campaigns in recent program history.

Bean did not hear his name called in the 2024 NFL Draft but later signed an undrafted free-agent deal with the Indianapolis Colts. Yesterday, the team played its preseason opener against the Denver Broncos, and the ex-Jayhawk had his first taste of NFL action. He also just so happened to throw his first-ever NFL touchdown pass!

Former Kansas Jayhawks star Jason Bean impresses in NFL preseason debut

Indianapolis decided to place Bean in the game late in the fourth quarter when they were trailing 27-24. His first drive did not go as planned — he was strip-sacked after a few plays and turned the ball over. But when he trotted back onto the field on his second drive, he nearly led the Colts to an unexpected comeback.

Trailing 34-24, Bean strung together a few completions and guided Indy down the field in a hurry. He completed 4-of-6 pass attempts for 51 yards, throwing a 16-yard touchdown pass to Laquon Treadwell. The speedster showcased his athleticism, too, adding 24 yards on the ground on four carries.

It turned out to be a successful debut for Bean, who was the only signal-caller on the Colts to throw for a touchdown pass. Then again, he turned it over on his first drive. This shouldn't come as a surprise, as Jayhawk fans have learned this about Bean in the past few years. His highs are high, and his lows are — well, really low.

With Anthony Richardson being the Colts' franchise QB and more proven backups like Joe Flacco in the mix, the likelihood of Bean cracking the 53-man roster is extremely slim. However, an opportunity could come his way if he signs to a practice squad and waits for his chance.