Kansas football is on the brink of a new chapter as the Jayhawks prepare to transition from a challenging 5-7 season. Despite their struggles, the team’s potential shone through, with five of their seven losses coming by a mere single score. As they look ahead, Kansas will be saying goodbye to some exceptional seniors, which opens the door for new talent to step up.
Key Departing Players from Kansas
The Jayhawks are set to lose a standout running back along with a couple of highly regarded defensive backs, all of whom are projected to make their mark in the upcoming NFL Draft. This transition presents an exciting opportunity for Kansas to showcase their talent on a bigger stage. Let’s take a closer look at these promising prospects.
1. Devin Neal, Kansas RB
Leading the pack is Devin Neal, a four-star in-state recruit who has proven his worth throughout his four seasons with the Jayhawks. Neal has amassed an impressive 4,343 rushing yards and 49 touchdowns, making him the all-time leader in both categories for Kansas. His consistency is remarkable, as he surpassed the 1,000-yard mark in each of his final three seasons, including a standout 1,266 yards in 2024.
What makes Neal such an intriguing prospect? His combination of speed, agility, and vision on the field makes him one of the top running back prospects in the draft. However, predictions vary widely, with most mock drafts placing him anywhere between the second and fifth rounds. If Neal can showcase his skills effectively during the NFL Combine and his pro day, he could very well find himself climbing up those rankings.
2. Mello Dotson, Kansas CB
Next up is Mello Dotson, a three-star cornerback from Florida who has made significant contributions to the Jayhawks’ defense. After a brief redshirt in 2020, Dotson emerged as a force, finishing his Kansas career with 37 passes broken up and 12 interceptions. His ability to change the game was evident in 2023 and 2024 when he recorded two pick-sixes.
Standing at 6-foot-1, Dotson is a respected cornerback prospect. Recent mock drafts have him projected as a third-round pick. While he may need some refinement, his experience against top offenses during his four-year tenure as a starter has prepared him well for the next level. Dotson is definitely a player to keep an eye on as the draft approaches.
3. Cobee Bryant, Kansas CB
Finally, we have Cobee Bryant, another promising cornerback who hails from Alabama. A three-star recruit, Bryant has been a steady contributor for Kansas over the past four seasons, racking up 35 pass breakups and 13 interceptions. His knack for making big plays is highlighted by his pick-six in both his first two seasons and a scoop-and-score touchdown as a junior.
At a solid 6 feet tall, Bryant may not be the tallest player, but his athleticism and skill set make him a prime NFL prospect. His performance at the Shrine Bowl practices has garnered attention, and he’s projected to be drafted anywhere from the end of the first round to the seventh round. A strong showing at the NFL Combine could significantly boost his draft stock.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Kansas Football
As Kansas bids farewell to these talented players, the question arises: What does the future hold for the Jayhawks? With a solid foundation of returning players and the potential for new recruits, the team has the opportunity to rebuild and improve upon last year’s performance. The departure of key players often paves the way for younger talent to step up and fill the gaps, and Kansas is no exception.
The Jayhawks will need to focus on developing their remaining roster while also scouting for fresh talent to bring in. With the right mix of experience and youthful energy, Kansas could surprise many in the upcoming season.
What are your thoughts on the Kansas Jayhawks and their departing NFL prospects? Do you think they have what it takes to turn things around? Share your opinions in the comments below!
As the NFL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Jayhawks’ stars as they aim to make their mark on professional football. The excitement surrounding these players and their potential futures adds an extra layer of anticipation for fans and analysts alike. Will they rise to the occasion and secure their spots in the league? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: Kansas football is ready for its next chapter.
