This Position Group Might Be Kansas Football’s Biggest Defensive Weapon

Kansas' linebackers are quietly becoming one of the Jayhawks' biggest defensive strengths heading into 2026.

Kansas redshirt junior linebacker Quincy Davis (13) runs to the next drill alongside redshirt senior linebacker Bam Crouch (7) during practice at The University of Kansas on Aug. 6, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

While the Kansas football team's defense does have holes, a few position groups are looking extremely promising heading into the new season. One unit that is giving Jayhawk fans hope about this defense is the linebacker corps.

Through the first week or so of fall camp, the linebackers have reportedly been the best position group on the entire defense. There have been a few players who have stood out early on, according to head coach Lance Leipold.

"We've talked about some of these individual guys like Quincy Davis that have continued to show up," Leipold said. "Bam [Crouch] is healthier, playing more confidently, feeling good about things. And Jibreel [Al-Amin], this is the heaviest he's ever played in his career, but he still moves extremely well.

"[Linebacker coach] Chris [Simpson] and DK [McDonald] continue to give guys opportunities at multiple spots to show what they can do to continue to add to the position, get our best players on the field," Leipold added. "The depth of the position, we look different at that position than maybe we have in years past with guys that can play a lot of snaps for us."

Pay Heed podcast host and KCSN's very own Nick Springer attended camp on Monday and had particularly great things to say about Quincy Davis. The New Mexico State transfer was hitting hard and playing with intensity during yesterday's session, but Springer notes that he still must adapt his game.

"With Quincy Davis, who's coming from a G5 level, understanding that he's going to have to increase his physicality and strength as well to match what's at the Power 5 level and Big 12."

The growth of players like Davis and Bam Crouch will go a long way in determining how effective KU's defense is in 2026 — and we didn't forget to mention how pivotal the return of Trey Lathan was, the 2025 team's leading tackler. Lathan briefly entered the transfer portal this offseason before deciding to return to the program.

The secondary and interior defensive line are undoubtedly concerning groups, but the linebacker room gives the Jayhawks' defense some hope. They have a mix of solid pass coverage and run-stopping ability, along with plenty of experience to round out the unit.