The Kansas coaching staff's persistence finally paid off as they successfully brought running back Dylan Edwards into the fold. Edwards' journey to Kansas was anything but straightforward. Originally a top recruit from Derby High School in the 2023 class, he initially committed to Kansas State, then switched to Notre Dame, before ultimately signing with Colorado.
Head coach Lance Leipold and his team made their first attempt to recruit Edwards when he entered the transfer portal after a standout freshman season with the Buffaloes. However, at that time, KU's roster already featured Devin Neal, so Edwards chose K-State instead.
After spending two seasons with the Wildcats, including a 2025 campaign cut short by an ankle injury, Edwards made the bold move to join the Jayhawks, crossing the Sunflower Showdown rivalry lines.
“I wanted something different,” Edwards shared on Saturday, embracing his unique path.
On the field, Edwards brings a distinct flair. As KU’s new associate head coach Andy Kotelnicki noted, Edwards’ speed and agility create opportunities for specialized offensive packages. His abilities add a fresh dynamic to the Jayhawks' revamped backfield.
Leipold expressed excitement about Edwards’ potential, saying, “Once he was fully cleared from his injury, watching him play has been thrilling, and I think our fans will love it too.”
Now a redshirt junior, Edwards first made waves in college football with Colorado, racking up 159 yards and four touchdowns in an upset victory over TCU. Though that was his standout game with the Buffaloes, he still managed 620 yards of offense in his freshman year.
Returning to K-State, Edwards complemented DJ Giddens and shone in the Rate Bowl with a remarkable 196-yard, three-touchdown performance against Rutgers. Unfortunately, his next season was marred by an ankle injury sustained in the opening game against Iowa State in Ireland, limiting him to just three games.
After leaving K-State in November, Edwards spent time in a walking boot until January, when he began rehab. During this period, he evaluated his next move, and KU kept a close eye on his progress. The Jayhawks invited him for visits, fostering a relationship that had roots in his high school days.
“I’ve known them for a long time,” Edwards said, appreciating the continuity with KU’s coaching staff.
Edwards emphasized that KU’s coaches allowed him to be himself, a factor that set them apart from other options. Leipold assured Edwards they were committed to making his experience positive.
There were initial concerns about how Edwards would be received by his new teammates, but those quickly dissipated. “Everyone was welcoming and ready to work with me,” he said.
Edwards is determined to fulfill his potential at the Big 12 level, focusing on regaining confidence and enjoying the game. “I’m ready and happy here,” he stated, underscoring the importance of having fun.
Kotelnicki is eager to integrate Edwards into the offense, promising to maximize his unique talents. “Coach K hasn’t restricted me,” Edwards said. “He’s encouraged me to play fast and be myself.”
With other strong options in the backfield, such as Syracuse transfer Yasin Willis and Colorado State’s Jalen Dupree, KU is well-equipped to create a versatile and potent running game.
Edwards has seamlessly blended into the team, contributing his competitive spirit and coachability. “He’s been everything we hoped for as a player,” Kotelnicki noted, highlighting Edwards’ quiet intensity and drive on the field.