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KU Football Grapples with Transfer Portal Departures

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 0:49 GMT by The Topeka Capital-Journal
      Locales: Kansas, Missouri, UNITED STATES

Lawrence, Kansas - January 31st, 2026 - The University of Kansas football program is actively managing roster changes as the January 2026 transfer portal window remains open. As college football increasingly experiences player mobility, the Jayhawks are both losing key contributors and aggressively pursuing replacements, aiming to maintain competitiveness in the ever-challenging Big 12 Conference.

Currently, the team is grappling with the departures of several players, most notably linebacker Trey Lathan and safety Jalen Montgomery. Lathan's entry into the portal on January 3rd sent ripples through the defensive coaching staff, as he had been a consistent performer and a potential leader in the linebacker corps. Reports suggest Lathan is seriously considering opportunities at Arizona State and Colorado, drawn by the potential for a more prominent role and, likely, a lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal. His decision highlights a broader trend in college football: players prioritizing both playing time and financial incentives.

Montgomery's announcement, made last week, followed a similar narrative. He expressed a desire for increased playing time, a common motivator for players entering the transfer portal. While he demonstrated promise in limited action for Kansas, the crowded safety position likely limited his opportunities for consistent snaps. Several Big 12 rivals have reportedly reached out, suggesting Montgomery's skillset is highly valued within the conference. Losing both Lathan and Montgomery creates noticeable gaps in the defensive backfield and at linebacker, areas the coaching staff is now prioritizing.

Beyond these key departures, a handful of walk-on players have also chosen to seek opportunities elsewhere. While their impact on the immediate on-field performance is less significant, their departures still contribute to the overall roster depth challenges. Managing roster depth is crucial in the modern game, where injuries and unexpected circumstances can quickly derail a season.

The Kansas coaching staff, led by [Head Coach's Name - Information not in original article, assumed for completeness], is responding proactively. They are meticulously evaluating potential transfer additions, with linebacker and safety identified as immediate needs. The staff isn't solely focused on filling the holes left by departures; they are also addressing the long-term need for depth at offensive line, anticipating the loss of a veteran lineman due to graduation. The portal has become a vital recruiting tool, allowing teams to address weaknesses and enhance strengths quickly.

As of January 7th, Kansas extended a scholarship offer to [Player Name], a linebacker prospect from [High School/Previous School - Information from original article]. This demonstrates the staff's commitment to identifying and securing talent through the transfer portal. However, competition for these players is fierce, with programs across the country vying for the same recruits. The increased use of analytics and scouting reports is playing a crucial role in identifying potential transfers who are a good fit for the team's scheme and culture.

The transfer portal window is expected to remain active for several more weeks, meaning further player movement is highly likely. The coaching staff is bracing for potential additional departures, while simultaneously continuing to evaluate and recruit potential additions. The ability to adapt and navigate this dynamic landscape will be critical to Kansas's success in the upcoming 2026 season.

Experts predict the transfer portal will continue to reshape college football rosters in the years to come. The loosening of restrictions on player movement, coupled with the rise of NIL opportunities, has empowered athletes to take control of their careers. For programs like Kansas, this presents both challenges and opportunities. Successfully navigating the portal requires a combination of strong recruiting, player development, and a willingness to adapt to the evolving landscape of college athletics. The coming weeks will be crucial for the Jayhawks as they strive to build a competitive roster for the 2026 campaign. Furthermore, the staff will likely be monitoring the portal for potential graduate transfers who can provide immediate leadership and experience.