Michigan State Transfer Brings Versatility to Kansas Defensive End

David Santiago quickly committed to Kansas after entering the transfer portal, drawn by the defense's creative scheme.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:22pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a defensive end in motion, with sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in the Jayhawks' colors of crimson, blue, and white, capturing the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the position.The versatile and intelligent play of transfer defensive end David Santiago adds a new dimension to the Kansas defense.East Lansing Today

David Santiago, a former defensive end at Michigan State, has transferred to the University of Kansas. Santiago was drawn to Kansas by the versatility and creativity of the Jayhawks' defensive scheme, which allows defensive ends to play multiple roles rather than being confined to a specific position. After entering the transfer portal on December 31, Santiago visited Kansas the following weekend and committed on January 6.

Why it matters

The addition of Santiago provides a boost to the Kansas defensive end group, as he brings strong football IQ and the ability to excel in multiple roles within the defense. His versatility allows the Jayhawks to be more creative in their defensive game planning and presents challenges for opposing offenses.

The details

At Michigan State, Santiago felt he had to 'fit into a glove' to play defensive end, but the scheme at Kansas allows for more flexibility. The Jayhawks' defensive ends are tasked with both rushing the passer and dropping into coverage, and Santiago is embracing the opportunity to play a more diverse role. Defensive ends coach Joe Dineen has been impressed with Santiago's intelligence and ability to pick up the new defensive concepts quickly.

  • On December 31, 2025, Santiago entered the transfer portal.
  • On January 6, 2026, Santiago announced his commitment to Kansas after taking an official visit the previous weekend.

The players

David Santiago

A former defensive end at Michigan State who has transferred to the University of Kansas, bringing strong football IQ and versatility to the Jayhawks' defensive end group.

Joe Dineen

The defensive ends coach at the University of Kansas, who has been impressed with Santiago's intelligence and ability to quickly pick up the new defensive concepts.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I think, like, with the scheme at Michigan State, you know, it was kind of like you had to fit into a glove in order to play defensive end there. But here I feel like it's more like, you know, it's third and five, 'David, we need to get a stop,' like, go out and, you know, do it, like within the play call, obviously, but just be able to play more free.”

— David Santiago, Defensive End

“When we got here, he's really smart. You know, you don't know that necessarily in the portal. You talk to him a little bit and do the, you know, one-day official visit deal, and that's kind of the extent of what you find out about him.”

— Joe Dineen, Defensive Ends Coach

What’s next

Santiago will continue to learn the Kansas defensive scheme and work on developing chemistry with his new teammates during the remainder of spring practice. His progress will be closely watched as the Jayhawks look to improve their defensive performance in the upcoming season.

The takeaway

The addition of David Santiago provides a significant boost to the Kansas defensive end group, as his versatility and high football IQ allow the Jayhawks to be more creative and unpredictable in their defensive game planning. His ability to excel in multiple roles within the defense presents challenges for opposing offenses and could be a key factor in the Jayhawks' success this season.