Jalon Daniels will be the starting quarterback for the Kansas football team in 2025, barring any unforeseen issues. While he is the undisputed star and leader of this team, he does have a history of injuries.
If something were to happen to Daiels and he had to miss a snap or two, or a series, or a half, or even a game, what do the Jayhawks have lined up behind him?
The KU depth chart after Daniels at quarterback is filled with promise and inexperience. It should be very competitive as to who wins the primary backup quarterback position.
Who are the candidates to back up Jalon Daniels at quarterback for the Kansas football team in 2025
Redshirt sophomore Cole Ballard has to be the favorite going into preseason practices. During his first two seasons at Kansas, he’s seen action in seven games. He has 337 passing yards, with two touchdowns and three interceptions. He’s added 117 rushing yards as well.
His most significant moment thus far came in 2023, when he filled in for an injured Jason Bean, who was filling in for an injured Jalon Daniel. Against K-State, Ballard was poised and effective, going 11 for 16 for 162 yards through the air. He had a touchdown and two interceptions in a game KU should have won, but lost 27-31.
Ballard offers poise and surprising athleticism, plus game experience within Leipold’s system, though KU will have its third primary offensive coordinator in the last three seasons.
Isaiah Marshall is a redshirt freshman who was an exciting recruit out of Michigan last year. He didn’t see any time on the field, so there is little data on how good of a passer he might be, but he has the reputation of being a good runner. While he is relatively unknown, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him get some snaps this season, either covering for injuries or as a change of pace.
Mike Pauley is a redshirt junior who transferred from Nebraska. While he didn’t see the field with the Huskers, he played briefly in last season’s KU opener against Lindenwood. He was a productive two-sport prep athlete at Blue Valley Northwest, so there is undoubtedly talent with him. It will be interesting to see where he ends up on the depth chart.
Lastly, freshman David McComb is probably a redshirt candidate, as is often the case with first-year quarterbacks. There is a chance he can earn a backup role, but considering who is in front of him, he’d have to be extremely impressive in preseason camp to displace the three guys in front of him. It’s possible, but it may not be likely.
The Kansas football depth chart is in good shape, but there is a definite lack of Experience that could cause issues if something were to happen to Daniels. Leipold’s biggest task may be trying to get at least some snaps for these guys backing up Daniels, so they have some experience next season when Daniels is gone.
The cupboard isn’t bare, but there are many unknowns. Hopefully, Daniels will remain healthy and productive all season.