Kansas

Kansas enters 2026 as a true spring ranking case study — a roster loaded with promising new talent that could dramatically alter the program's trajectory if the defense can make the necessary leap. The Jayhawks grade out at +1.4 points nationally (54th), buoyed by an offense that ranks 33rd (+2.9) but dragged down by a defense that sits 77th (-1.2) after another disappointing campaign. The portal brought significant changes, with 31 arrivals adding 107.7 PPA compared to 26 departures costing just 5.6 PPA, headlined by wide receiver Nik McMillan (41.6 PPA from Buffalo) and fellow wideout Nahzae Cox (20.7 PPA from Middle Tennessee). The backfield gets a boost from Kansas State transfer Dylan Edwards, who should help offset the losses of Harry Stewart III and Johnny Thompson Jr., while quarterback Chase Jenkins (19.8 PPA from Rice) enters a wide-open competition to replace the departed Jalon Daniels.

JP+ projects 6.4 wins for Kansas, a modest improvement over last year's 5-7 record that hinges entirely on whether the defense can transform from liability to respectability. The fragile replacement ecosystem creates significant uncertainty, particularly with the new signal-caller inheriting an offense that lost key continuity but gained explosive potential through the portal additions. Road trips to Utah and Oklahoma State loom as the season's toughest tests, while home games against Baylor and Middle Tennessee offer win-building opportunities. If the defensive improvements materialize and the quarterback competition produces a capable starter, Kansas could surprise in the Big 12 and push toward bowl eligibility — but if the defense remains porous, even the offensive upgrades won't be enough to escape another losing season.