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Chase Jenkins Embracing Backup Role as Kansas Quarterback Competition Continues
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- Chase Jenkins Embracing Backup Role as Kansas Quarterback Competition Continues
(USA TODAY Network)
Chase Jenkins Embracing Backup Role as Kansas Quarterback Competition Continues
As Kansas continues its quarterback competition between Cole Ballard and Isaiah Marshall, Rice transfer Chase Jenkins is settling into an important role behind the two frontrunners.
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While Ballard and Marshall have taken center stage during fall camp, quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator Jim Zebrowski emphasized that Jenkins remains a critical part of the Jayhawks' plans, especially given Kansas' recent history at the position.
"What happened the first couple years we were here?" Zebrowski said. "Multi-quarterbacks."
Kansas has relied on quarterback depth before, most notably when Ballard was forced into action as a true freshman during the 2023 season. That experience has reinforced the staff's belief that every quarterback in the room must be prepared.
"I think one of my strengths... is to make sure when you have quarterbacks who are dynamic and will run as part of your offense, you have to have depth or you can't do it," Zebrowski said. "My job is to make sure that if something does happen to one of those two guys, or both those guys, that the No. 3 and No. 4 have to be able to play."
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Jenkins transferred to Kansas after starting at Rice last season, where he rushed for 531 yards and five touchdowns while throwing for 1,025 yards with nine touchdowns and just two interceptions. However, much of that production came in a shotgun-based triple-option offense, making the transition to Kansas' system a significant adjustment.
"It's a completely different world," Jenkins said. "It's completely different, a lot of stuff that's kind of excluded."
His transition was slowed during spring practice because of physical limitations, but Jenkins said the extra time spent learning the offense has paid off heading into fall camp.
"I've been able to really sit down, hone in on everything," Jenkins said. "I've learned a lot since then and I've been able to grasp it pretty well."
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Zebrowski credited senior analyst John DeFilippo for helping accelerate Jenkins' development, allowing the staff to spend more time working with the quarterbacks new to the system.
Even if Ballard or Marshall wins the starting job, Jenkins understands the importance of staying ready.
"For me, just doing whatever I can to help the team win," Jenkins said. "However that comes, whatever form or fashion."
With Kansas preparing to open the season Sept. 5 against Long Island University, the quarterback competition may dominate headlines, but the Jayhawks believe having an experienced third option like Jenkins could prove just as valuable over the course of the season.
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