JUST IN:Jalon Daniels Suspended and Banned From Football for Two Years, Kansas Turns to Backup QB due to…
Jalon Daniels Suspended and Banned From Football for Two Years, Kansas Turns to Backup QB
Daniels, who was expected to lead Kansas into what many believed would be a breakout season in the Big 12, now finds himself sidelined from the sport entirely. The two-year ban effectively ends his college career and casts serious doubt on his future in football. The university has confirmed the suspension and ban but has not disclosed full details of the violations, citing ongoing legal and procedural reviews.
“This is a deeply disappointing moment for our program, our fans, and most importantly for Jalon,” said Kansas head coach Lance Leipold in a brief statement. “He’s a gifted athlete and a respected teammate, and we’re still processing this news as a team. Our focus now shifts to preparing our next man up and continuing to compete with pride.”
Daniels, a former four-star recruit out of Lawndale, California, rose to national prominence in 2022 after leading Kansas to a hot start and earning multiple weekly honors. Known for his dual-threat capabilities and dynamic leadership, Daniels had become the face of a resurging Jayhawks football team. His suspension leaves a gaping hole in the offensive lineup and raises serious questions about how Kansas will adjust heading into the heart of their season.
With Daniels out, redshirt sophomore Cole Ballard is expected to take over as the team’s starting quarterback. Ballard, the son of Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard, has shown flashes of talent in limited appearances. He now faces the enormous pressure of leading a Power Five program with bowl game aspirations.
“This is Cole’s opportunity to step in and show what he can do,” said offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki. “We’ve built depth in that quarterback room, and we believe in Cole’s ability to execute our system and lead this team forward.”
Fans and analysts alike are reeling from the news, which comes just weeks before the season opener. Social media has been ablaze with speculation, rumors, and expressions of support for Daniels, who has yet to make a public statement. Legal representatives close to the player suggest an appeal may be filed, but the NCAA has been firm in its language, stating that “serious breaches of code and conduct have led to this necessary disciplinary action.”
This marks one of the most high-profile suspensions in Kansas football history. While Daniels’ absence will undoubtedly alter the trajectory of the season, the program is vowing to stay focused and resilient.
The Jayhawks will open their season against Southern Illinois, with Ballard now expected to be under center. The pressure will be on the entire offense to rally around their new leader and keep hopes alive for what was once a highly anticipated season.
For now, the legacy of Jalon Daniels remains clouded in controversy, and the Kansas football program must find a way to move forward without its star.
