Kansas Football Convinces Big Recruit to Spurn Rivals in Surprise Decision

The Kansas Jayhawks landed a major football recruit on Thursday, securing the commitment of four-star WR Jaden Nickens.

He'll reportedly play both football and basketball, though the implications of his football recruitment loom large. Kansas beat out major rival schools like Missouri, Georgia, Oklahoma, and Texas A&M. It's the highest-rated recruit of the Jayhawks' 2025 class and represents a massive victory for Lance Leipold and his staff.

This has been a disappointing, lost season. Nonetheless, the future remains bright as Leipold continues to leave his stamp on the program.

Kansas Jayhawks Land Major WR Recruit

"It just all came together,” Nickens told On3 regarding his recruitment. "The basketball staff started recruiting me first, then I started talking to the football staff a couple of weeks later. They got on the same page, I got the offer on Sept. 28 and I made my decision."

Bill Self's basketball program is perhaps the most successful in the country. Nickens could have an impact, though signing him says more about the football team than anything. He's reportedly never seen the college campus, so his recruitment showcases his belief in the respective coaching staffs.

"Kansas is a great basketball school, they are building a top football program and I get to play both sports for a great school that have great coaches," Nickens continued. "I love how those coaches worked together to recruit me, how they both want me to play both sports and it is a great fit for me."

Ranked as the 55th-best wide receiver in the country, Nickens will have every opportunity to leave his mark in Lawrence.

More Kansas City Sports News: