If you’re between the ages of 15 and 30, you likely don’t think of the Kansas Jayhawks as a football powerhouse. In fact, you might see them as one of the worst teams in the FBS. From 1996 to 2022, the Jayhawks managed only three winning seasons.
However, things began to change when Jalon Daniels arrived in Lawrence, Kansas, in 2020. Now, the Jayhawks are not only ranked but also have a legitimate shot at the Big 12 title.
Where did Jalon Daniels play in high school, and how did he end up at Kansas?
Jalon Daniels: A Magician in High School
Coming out of Lawndale High School in Southern California, Daniels wasn’t the highest-ranked quarterback, but he was undoubtedly an effective player. As a multi-year starter, he made his mark as a sophomore, primarily using his legs as a run-first quarterback with a decent arm.
Before his junior season, Daniels experienced a growth spurt, adding height and weight, which transformed him into a true dual-threat quarterback. That year, he led Lawndale to a 14-2 record, throwing for 2,351 yards and rushing for 940 yards with 36 total touchdowns.
His improved passing skills opened up more running lanes, shifting the perception of him as a run-first player to a more balanced offensive weapon.
Despite his success, Daniels remained under the radar. Entering his senior year, he had only a handful of FCS and Group of Five offers. He initially committed to Middle Tennessee State in October, which was his most notable offer at the time.
While detailed stats for his senior season aren’t available, his Hudl tape showcases his talent. He repeatedly displayed elusive moves, evading defenses with ease. However, major offers still didn’t roll in—except for one.
Late in Daniels’ senior season, Kansas extended an offer, leading the three-star prospect to de-commit from MTSU and commit to the Jayhawks just before the early signing period.
A Superstar at Kansas … With Some Injury Troubles
Daniels didn’t have the typical true freshman experience for a three-star recruit with just one offer. Instead, he started in six of Kansas’ nine games during the COVID-19-shortened season, throwing for 716 yards and leading the team in rushing attempts.
Daniels made significant strides between his freshman and sophomore years at Kansas. While he played less in his second year, he showed marked improvement. He only started the final three games of the season, coming off the bench in six others. From Year 1 to Year 2, he boosted his completion percentage by 19.2 points, becoming a much more efficient passer while running less.
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As a junior in 2022, Daniels battled injuries but still managed to throw for over 2,000 yards and 18 touchdowns, adding 425 yards and seven scores on the ground. If he had stayed healthy all season, the Jayhawks might have secured their first winning season since 2007, but they fell just short.
In 2023, Daniels was named the Big 12 Preseason Offensive Player of the Year but got injured just three promising games into the season. Now healthy, he’s ready to lead Kansas to new heights in 2024. With the COVID-19 year and a redshirt season in 2023, Daniels could have multiple years of eligibility left.
For now, Daniels is focused on 2024. Already ranked in the top 25, the Jayhawks have high hopes, thanks to a quarterback that none of the other Power Four teams offered.
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