Kansas QB Jalon Daniels Commits to Jayhawks for 2025 Season
Big news is coming out of Lawrence, Kansas, and it’s sure to have Jayhawks fans buzzing with excitement. Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels has officially agreed to return for the 2025 season, which will be his final year of eligibility. The news, first reported by ESPN’s Pete Thamel, solidifies the Jayhawks’ quarterback situation for another year and gives the team a proven leader under center.
Daniels has been a cornerstone of the Kansas football program during his five years in Lawrence. Over that time, he’s racked up some impressive stats, throwing for 6,751 yards and 45 touchdowns. This past season, Daniels showcased his dual-threat abilities, throwing for 2,454 yards and 14 touchdowns while adding 447 rushing yards and six touchdowns on the ground. Those numbers highlight just how dynamic and versatile he is as a quarterback.
Overcoming Adversity
Daniels’ journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Injuries have been a recurring theme in his career, but his resilience has been nothing short of inspiring. After two injury-plagued seasons, Daniels finally managed to start all 12 games for the Jayhawks this year. It was a welcome change for both Daniels and Kansas fans, who had seen him sidelined by a shoulder injury that cost him half of the team’s breakout 2022 season. Last year, a back injury limited him to just three games, leaving many to wonder if he could ever stay healthy for a full season.
But Daniels answered those doubts in 2024, proving he could be the consistent presence Kansas needed. His ability to bounce back from adversity and lead the team on the field has made him a fan favorite and a key figure in the program’s resurgence.
What This Means for Kansas
So, what does Daniels’ return mean for the Jayhawks? For starters, it gives Kansas stability at the most important position on the field. Having a veteran quarterback like Daniels back for another year is a huge win for head coach Lance Leipold and his staff. It also sends a message to the rest of the Big 12: Kansas is serious about competing at a high level.
Here’s why Daniels’ return is such a big deal:
- Leadership: As a fifth-year player, Daniels brings experience and leadership to the locker room. Younger players will look to him as a role model both on and off the field.
- Consistency: After years of uncertainty at quarterback due to injuries, Kansas can finally count on having a proven starter under center.
- Momentum: The Jayhawks have been building something special under Leipold, and keeping Daniels in the fold helps maintain that momentum heading into 2025.
With Daniels leading the way, Kansas has a chance to build on its recent success and continue climbing the ranks in the Big 12. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs gives the Jayhawks a dynamic weapon that opposing defenses will have to account for every week.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Daniels and the Jayhawks. Can he stay healthy for another full season? Will Kansas take the next step and become a true contender in the Big 12? Those questions remain to be answered, but one thing is certain: having Jalon Daniels back in the fold is a huge boost for the program.
For Kansas fans, this news is a reason to celebrate. Daniels has been through the ups and downs with this team, and his decision to return shows his commitment to finishing what he started. With his talent, leadership, and determination, the sky’s the limit for both Daniels and the Jayhawks in 2025.
So, mark your calendars and get ready for another exciting season of Kansas football. With Jalon Daniels at the helm, the Jayhawks are poised to make some noise in the college football world. Stay tuned, because this story is far from over.
Originally Written by: Pete Thamel
