Kansas Jayhawks Lose Veteran Safety Rawls, Transfer to Arizona State

Kansas Jayhawks see veteran safety Lyrik Rawls exit the program, announcing his transfer to Arizona State on July 8, 2026, after posting 632 snaps and 73 tackles in 2025.

How did Rawls impact the Jayhawks?

Rawls logged 632 defensive snaps and 73 tackles last season, ranking second on the team in both categories. His experience anchored a secondary that struggled overall, and his leadership was noted by coaches and teammates alike. The safety’s departure removes a key veteran, prompting questions about how the Jayhawks will fill the void.

Who is stepping into Rawls' shoes?

Kansas has loaded its 2026 safety room through the transfer portal, adding Khijohnn Cummings‑Coleman from Iowa State, Corey Gordon Jr. from Louisville, Jaden Harris from Georgia, and Christian Pritchett from Georgia Tech. These newcomers bring fresh talent, but none carry Rawls' two‑year snap count or on‑field leadership.

What does the move mean for Arizona State?

Arizona State welcomes Rawls as a Sun Devil, counting on his experience for the Union Jack Classic at Wembley Stadium on Sept. 19, when ASU faces KU. Coach Kenny Dillingham highlighted Rawls' desire to lead, a trait the Sun Devils hope will translate into on‑field performance.

How does this affect Kansas’ upcoming schedule?

The Jayhawks will open the 2026 season against Long Island University Sharks on Sept. 5, a game that will test the revamped secondary before the high‑profile London matchup. Rawls will be on the opposite sideline, leading the ASU defense against his former team.

Why did Rawls decide to leave?

Rawls cited “circumstances” and “situations” at KU that didn’t feel right, opting for a fresh start in Tempe. He didn’t elaborate on specifics, but his comments suggest a mix of personal and football‑related factors drove the decision.

What’s next for the Jayhawks’ defense?

With Rawls gone, KU’s defensive backs coach will lean heavily on the new transfers during spring practices. The goal is to blend the newcomers’ athleticism with existing starters to create a cohesive unit before the September 5 opener.

How will the Union Jack Classic play out?

Rawls will lead the Sun Devils against the Jayhawks at Wembley, a setting unfamiliar to most players. He noted that about 90% of the ASU roster has never traveled abroad, adding an extra layer of excitement to the contest.

What does this mean for recruiting?

Rawls’ move underscores the fluid nature of the transfer portal in the Big 12. Kansas must continue to attract high‑caliber talent to remain competitive, while Arizona State demonstrates its ability to lure experienced players from rival programs.

What’s the broader impact on the Big 12?

The transfer highlights the ongoing talent shuffle within the conference. As teams like KU rebuild, others like ASU capitalize on seasoned players to boost depth and experience, shaping the competitive landscape for the 2026 season.