Kansas running back Leshon Williams is getting his shot on the national stage. The senior has officially accepted an invitation to play in the 2026 Altrua HealthShare Hula Bowl, giving him a prime opportunity to showcase his game in front of NFL scouts ahead of the draft. The all-star event is set for January 10 at Spec Martin Stadium and will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network.
For Williams, this is more than just an exhibition-it’s a well-earned spotlight after a season of consistent production in the Jayhawks’ backfield. Splitting carries with Daniel Hishaw Jr., Williams still found ways to make a strong impression.
He racked up 560 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on just 97 carries, averaging a healthy 5.8 yards per attempt. That kind of efficiency doesn’t happen by accident.
It speaks to his vision, burst, and ability to maximize every touch.
What stood out about Williams this season was his ability to stay ready and deliver whenever his number was called. In a shared backfield, it’s easy for rhythm to get disrupted, but Williams maintained a steady presence. Whether it was grinding out tough yards between the tackles or slipping through a crease for a big gain, he showed the kind of versatility that translates well to the next level.
The Hula Bowl is a key stop on the pre-draft circuit, especially for players like Williams who may not have had the national spotlight all season but have the tools to make noise in front of pro evaluators. It’s a chance to prove he can compete with top-tier talent and handle the pressure of a bigger stage.
For Kansas, it’s another sign of the program’s growth-sending a player to a postseason showcase is a win not just for Williams, but for the Jayhawks’ momentum as a whole. And for Williams, it’s one more opportunity to show what he’s made of. If he brings the same consistency and explosiveness he showed all season, don’t be surprised if he turns some heads in Orlando.