Kansas just landed its first commitment in the 2027 recruiting class - and it's a big one, literally and figuratively. Derek Gonzalez, a towering 6-foot-7, 280-pound offensive tackle from Southern California, has pledged to Lance Leipold and the Jayhawks, giving KU a foundational piece up front as they continue to build for the future.
Gonzalez chose Kansas over a strong list of Power 4 programs, including Georgia, Tennessee, and Texas Tech - a sign that KU is starting to win some battles it wouldn’t have even been in a few years ago. The Jayhawks’ recruiting momentum under Leipold continues to trend upward, and this latest addition is another step in that direction.
A three-star prospect, Gonzalez is ranked as the No. 55 offensive tackle in the 2027 class and the No. 73 overall junior in the 2026 cycle. He carries an 87 grade from the 247Sports recruiting staff and checks in at No. 593 nationally in the 247Sports Composite rankings. So while he’s not yet a household name, the tools are there - and the upside is hard to miss.
This commitment didn’t come out of nowhere. Gonzalez was on campus last fall for the Jayhawks’ rivalry game against Kansas State, getting a firsthand look at the program’s energy and direction.
Offensive line coach Daryl Agpalsa has been the point man in Gonzalez’s recruitment, putting in the work to build a strong relationship and making a key visit to California in January to solidify KU’s position. Former assistant Angus McClure also played a role early on before leaving for a new opportunity at Sacramento State.
Texas Tech was the first Power 4 school to offer Gonzalez back in August, with Kansas following on September 1. But as the recruiting process unfolded, it became clear that KU’s consistent presence and vision for Gonzalez’s development struck a chord.
For Kansas, this is more than just a win on the recruiting trail - it’s a signal that the program is starting to attract the kind of talent that can change games in the trenches. Gonzalez has the frame, the pedigree, and now the opportunity to grow into a key piece of KU’s offensive line in the years to come. The Jayhawks are on the board in 2027 - and they’re starting with size, potential, and a whole lot of upside.