Kansas Jayhawks reshape their defense as safety Lyrik Rawls exits via the transfer portal, but the return of standout edge rusher Leroy Harris could ignite Big 12 success in 2026. Can KU’s evolving safety room hold up, and will Harris become the next NFL-caliber talent from Lawrence?

Derek Johnson breaks down the significance of losing starting safety Lyrik Rawls, what Harris’ impressive pass rush productivity means for KU’s defensive line, and the impact of wide receiver Cam Pickett returning for another year. The episode spotlights key player performance metrics, the challenges and opportunities posed by secondary depth, and how the Jayhawks’ roster moves set the stage for new stars to emerge. What does the future hold for KU’s defense, and can a retooled offense support a new quarterback?

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Omaha Steaks
Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale.
And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.

Rugiet
If you’ve been thinking about taking the next step, now’s the time.
Head to https://Rugiet.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGEto get 15% off your order for a limited time.
Rugiet Ready. Feel present. Feel confident. Feel ready.

Aura Frames
For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code COLLEGE at checkout.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.