These two Kansas Jayhawks defenders are drawing rave reviews as freshmen in camp

DJ Warner and Dakyus Brinkley haven’t been in Lawrence long, but Kansas Jayhawks football coach Lance Leipold already likes what he’s seen from the pair of defensive ends.

So much so that it’s looking likely one or both freshman newcomers could see playing time this fall.

“Dak and DJ continue to get better and understand what they’re going to do,” Leipold said. “We continue to work them on special teams, as well, and we will see where it shakes with the rotation. … If you’re trying to ask if those freshman could play some these year, that’s a high possibility.”

Brinkley, a former four-star recruit, joined the Jayhawks in January. He spent the spring rehabbing a knee after an injury. Warner, meanwhile, arrived at KU this summer.

“It (the defensive ends position group) has been very good — it’s been very competitive,” Warner said. “Everyone is going out there every day trying to compete.”

Warner said he’s been able to showcase his speed off the edge during training camp. His also said his closeness with Brinkley has helped him acclimate to KU.

“It feels like it’s been pretty good because, even though he came early, I feel like we are on the same path of trying to get reps and trying to still get better,” Warner said. “Having that guy next to me, on the same journey and the same path, is (good).”

Brinkley added: “It’s very exciting just to know what type of guys we are and what we could build. “

The Jayhawks lost star Austin Booker to the NFL Draft this offseason. Last year, he led the Jayhawks in sacks, with eight. With Booker’s departure, KU’s ability to create a consistent pass rush is a significant question mark.

Although neither Brinkley nor Warner project to be starters, the duo could help alleviate those pass-rush concerns in limited snaps. And toward that end, Brinkley’s return to full health is critical.

“I feel back to my normal self,” he said. “I just want to help my team the best way I can.”

Brinkley admitted the game’s pace will be faster in college than what he faced in high school ... though perhaps not that much faster.

“Coming from a 6A high school… we play good football out there in Texas,” he said with a smile.

For now, Brinkley and the Jayhawks are happy that all members of this year’s group of defensive linemen seem to be bringing out the best in one another.

“There’s a whole competition with the whole group,” he said. “We all try to get each other better each day. I would say it’s nothing personal.”