Kansas QB Jalon Daniels returning in 2024: What this means for the Jayhawks
Daniels has been the subject of a lot of transfer speculation over the past month. His absence has prompted curiosity about the severity of his back injury and whether he intends to take a four-game redshirt and move on. The quarterback decided to address the topic heading into Kansas’ final home game of the season.
“If you want something to talk about, talk about this: I’m not done yet and I’m not going anywhere,” Daniels said in a video he posted on social media.
— 𝕁𝔻𝟞💫 (@JalonDaniels6) November 16, 2023
Back injuries can be difficult and Daniels’ ailment has lingered longer than anticipated, but multiple team sources told The Athletic that Daniels and Kansas coach Lance Leipold have not had discussions about Daniels sitting out so he can take a four-game redshirt. Daniels could play in the Jayhawks’ bowl game if he’s healthy and still take advantage of the redshirt, but most expect 2024 to be his final college season.
What does Daniels returning mean for Kansas?
This is a strong statement by Daniels made less than three weeks before the NCAA transfer portal window opens on Dec. 4. The back injury has prevented him from taking the next step forward in his development, but Daniels looked impressive in leading Kansas to a 3-0 record in his starts and likely would be a coveted veteran QB if he did enter the portal.
The Jayhawks could have one of the most experienced teams in the Big 12 next season if they can get several key leaders like running back Devin Neal, wide receiver Lawrence Arnold and cornerback Cobee Bryant to return and join Daniels for 2024. If Leipold can retain their veteran talent, he should have a contender in a league that adds Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah but loses Oklahoma and Texas.
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