Lance Leipold expects Hishaw and Williams to carry backfield
With the departure of Devin Neal, KU’s all-time leading rusher, Lance Leipold and the Jayhawks are entering a new era in the backfield. Despite the challenge of replacing a player with Neal’s accomplishments, Leipold believes the team is in good hands with Daniel Hishaw and transfer Leshon Williams.
“First of all, Devin Neal was a special player for the University of Kansas,” Leipold said. “It wasn’t just what he did on the field, but who he was off of it. Being a Lawrence native, his decision to stay home and play for KU meant so much.”
Neal’s impact is now a part of Kansas football history. He is underway with his NFL career with the New Orleans Saints. The Jayhawks will now turn to Hishaw and Williams to carry the load in 2025.
During the Big 12 media day, Leipold singled out the two backs who are likely to get most of the work.
In 2024 Hishaw was named to the Doak Walker Award Watch List. In 2023 he was on the College Football Comeback Player of the Year Watch List. In 2023 he carried the ball 121 for 626 yards and showed flashes of a player who can be the lead back.
“Daniel Hishaw is someone who has waited patiently,” Leipold said. “Much like Jalon (Daniels), he’s had a bumpy road with injuries. But two years ago, before he was injured against Iowa State, he was probably playing as well as anyone we had offensively.”
Hishaw brings a skill set that includes strength, reliable hands, and the ability to contribute in pass protection. Joining him is Leshon Williams, a transfer from Iowa who led the Hawkeyes in rushing two seasons ago.
“Much like Daniel, Leshon is a powerful back,” Leipold said. “And by the end of spring practice, you could tell he was getting his legs back under him.”
Replacing Neal won’t be easy, Leipold feels confident in the duo leading KU’s rushing attack.
“I really feel confident about those two guys sharing the load and giving us a very good backfield along with Jalon,” he said.
