Last season, Kansas’ defense often found itself exposed in the game’s biggest moments. It’s why KU struggled so much in fourth quarters and why they ultimately finished with the nation’s 95th-worst defense in the FBS, allowing 409.5 yards per game.
Thankfully, head coach Lance Leipold addressed these issues in the NCAA Transfer Portal as the team reeled in 14 eligible transfers on the defensive side of the ball.
While each will be looking to make their impact in one way or another, Daveon (Bam) Crouch should sit at the top of the list thanks to the talent he brings to the roster.
Crouch comes to KU after four seasons with the Boston College Eagles, where he notched 107 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks and 1 interception. Crouch opened last season with Boston College as a captain of the team; however, thanks to injuries, he struggled to see the field before opting for the portal.
According to 247Sports, Crouch joined the portal rated as an 86-overall 3-star in what was touted as the nation’s 53rd-best transfer class.
When speaking with the media earlier this month, Crouch was asked what traits he brings to a defense.
“Being aggressive, being able to knock people back, being able to make big plays. I feel like I also have a good coverage game. You know, guarding tight ends, running backs, out of the backfield. So I feel like I bring those two to the table.”
Against the pass last season, the Jayhawks posted the nation’s 68th-best defense that allowed 225.4 yards through the air per game.
Crouch will have to become an on-field leader
In the 2025 campaign, there were too many instances where KU looked like they were scrambling to make sure everyone was in the right positions. This is what allowed late, game-sealing rushing touchdowns against Missouri, Cincinnati and Arizona. The Jayhawks also allowed an average of 33 points per game allowed over their last six games of the season.
Over the offseason, the Jayhawks reeled in four transfer linebackers: Crouch, Jibreel Al-Amin, Jaron Willis and Quincy Davis.
According to Ourlads, Crouch is projected to start at weakside linebacker, beside Trey Lathan, who will be manning the middle. Crouch is set to start ahead of redshirt senior Al-Amin and true sophomore Malachi Curvey.
While Crouch is set to add a wealth of experience to this transfer-laden side, his impact can’t be fully measured until the Jayhawks take to the field against LIU on September 4, as the Jayhawks will be looking to start Lance Leipold’s sixth season at the helm with a bang.
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