The Kansas Jayhawks got a big early commitment during the Under Armour All-America Game. 2026 safety James Dunnigan announced his commitment to the school. He selected the Jayhawks over Kansas State, Nebraska and Stanford.
In speaking with Dunningan ahead of the announcement he told Rivals what the most appealing thing about Kansas was.
“They want me to play both ways,” Dunnigan said.
The in-state standout is the third member of the 2026 recruiting class for Kansas. He joins athlete Trey Brown and quarterback Jaylen Mason.
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CLASS OF 2025 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Team | Position | State
CLASS OF 2026 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Team | Position | State
CLASS OF 2027 RANKINGS: Top 100
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WHAT DUNNIGAN GIVES THE JAYHAWKS
There’s a lot to like about Dunnigan’s game. He’s got prototypical size to play the safety position at 6-foot-3, 190 pounds. Because he’s so big and long with good athletic ability, he can play in a variety of defensive schemes and excel. Dunnigan has the coverage skills to play the deep third but is physical enough to play a ‘rover’ type too.
His versatility is what makes him so coveted by college programs. Dunnigan is a player that should see the field early on special teams and could give the regular defense snaps as a true freshman.
