Limited by injury, where is Chase Jenkins in KU football's QB battle?

Cole Ballard shares insight into Kansas football's quarterback competition

Apr. 5, 2026 at 6:38pm

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Kansas football will have a new starting quarterback in 2026, with the departure of the previous starter. Quarterback Cole Ballard, who is competing for the starting job, recently shared his thoughts on the quarterback battle, including the status of fellow QB Chase Jenkins, who has been limited by injury during spring practices.

Why it matters

The quarterback position is a crucial one for any college football team, and Kansas is looking to find its next leader under center. Ballard's comments provide insight into how the competition is shaping up and the challenges facing Jenkins as he tries to earn the starting job.

The details

Ballard noted that any time a player is taken away from the game they love due to injury, even if it's just during spring practices, it can be difficult. Jenkins has been limited in his participation this spring as he recovers from an undisclosed injury. The quarterback battle at Kansas is wide open, and Ballard's comments suggest Jenkins' injury status could impact his standing in the competition.

  • Kansas football is currently going through spring practices in preparation for the 2026 season.

The players

Chase Jenkins

A Kansas football quarterback who has been limited by injury during spring practices as the team looks to find its next starting QB.

Cole Ballard

A Kansas football quarterback who is competing for the starting job and recently shared his thoughts on the quarterback battle, including the status of Chase Jenkins.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, I think any time, like, you're just taken away from the game you love being able to play, just even if it's at practice, the spring,”

— Cole Ballard, Kansas football quarterback

The takeaway

The quarterback competition at Kansas remains wide open, but Chase Jenkins' injury status could impact his standing in the battle to be the Jayhawks' starting QB in 2026. Cole Ballard's comments provide a glimpse into the challenges facing Jenkins as he looks to earn the top job.