Kansas Jayhawks Pursue Former Rival Running Back Dylan Edwards
The Sunflower Showdown rivalry is taking an unexpected turn off the field. The Kansas Jayhawks football program is now showing serious interest in former Kansas State running back Dylan Edwards. This potential transfer could inject fresh drama into the in-state clash when the season kicks off this fall.
Edwards Explores Options with Kansas as Top Contender
According to a report from On3's Pete Nakos, Dylan Edwards has started scheduling official visits to various programs. His representatives have confirmed that Kansas stands as a serious option for the talented running back. This development has generated considerable buzz across college football circles, especially given Edwards' complicated history with the Wildcats.
A Winding Collegiate Journey
Dylan Edwards began his college career as a four-star recruit from Derby High School in Kansas. He first committed to Kansas State, then flipped his commitment to Notre Dame. Edwards switched programs again, spending one season at Colorado before eventually returning to Manhattan to join the Wildcats. His time at Kansas State carried high expectations but delivered limited production in 2025 due to injuries and other setbacks.
Challenging 2025 Season
The running back's 2025 campaign started on a rough note. Edwards muffed a punt during the Week 0 loss to Iowa State in Ireland and suffered an injury shortly after that game. He appeared in only a handful of contests, making a notable impact in just one game before leaving the team midseason to preserve his redshirt status. Despite these frustrations, when fully healthy, Edwards brings elite speed and explosiveness that make him a standout prospect for any program.
Rivalry Intensity Could Reach New Heights
If Dylan Edwards lands in Lawrence with the Jayhawks, the annual rivalry game at Bill Snyder Family Stadium would carry extra intensity. The former Wildcat would potentially suit up against his old team, adding personal stakes to an already heated contest.
Kansas Seeks Backfield Reinforcement for 2026
Kansas head coach Lance Leipold needs depth and a new starter at running back heading into the 2026 season. The Jayhawks lose key contributors Daniel Hishaw Jr and Leshon Williams to graduation, creating a significant opening in the backfield. The team has already bolstered the position through the transfer portal with additions Jalen Dupree from Colorado State and Yasin Willis from Syracuse.
Edwards Could Provide Dynamic Weapon
Adding Dylan Edwards would give Kansas another dynamic offensive weapon. His career statistics show considerable promise, with over 2,100 all-purpose yards and 15 touchdowns across his stops at Colorado and Kansas State. With two years of eligibility remaining and a clean bill of health, he could develop into a home-run threat within KU's offensive scheme.
Decision Timeline and Impact
As Dylan Edwards weighs his options, Kansas appears positioned as a frontrunner for his services. A decision could come relatively soon, potentially reshaping the Sunflower Showdown rivalry for years to come. This transfer move would not only address Kansas' immediate needs but also add compelling narrative layers to one of college football's most passionate in-state rivalries.
