Media days provides familiar experience for two Jayhawks, new for two others

LAS VEGAS (KSNT) - Not many guys have attended their conference's media days three separate times.

However, that's the case for KU running back Devin Neal and quarterback Jalon Daniels.

"It's always awesome, to me, to give a glimpse into our program and what it's about," Neal told 27 News. "Obviously, there was a time where there wasn't much hype or anything positive much about this program. So, to be out here and have so much enthusiasm to talk to us and get some insight about our program means a lot to me, and I know it means a lot to our team as well."

Neal said more people at the league's annual summer gathering know about him and KU than in his first year attending.

For KU's two other player attendees, defensive end Jereme Robinson and defensive back Mello Dotson, 2024 is their first time representing Kansas football at this event.

"It means a lot," Robinson said. "It's very special. I'm glad I get to be a voice for my class, for my university."

Dotson recalls where the program was at when he arrived, in 2020, compared to where it is now.

"Coming from the program when it was 0-9 in the COVID year to now two back-to-back bowl appearances, a bowl win, it means a lot to be here today," Dotson said.

Lance Leipold spoke about what the two first-time media days attendees did to earn the honor to represent the program.

"He's a quiet leader, does everything you want," Leipold said of Robinson. "He's well respected within that locker room. He's one of those guys that went through a lot of coaching changes... Just a steady, well-respected player and a good football player."

He says the Jayhawks had a number of guys to consider sending, including cornerback Cobee Bryant and a solid trio of senior wide receivers, but calls that a good problem to have.

"Mello Dotson is a guy that has quietly continued to raise his game," Leipold said. "He's well respected in the locker room. He is a processor."

Leipold says besides being quality representatives to showcase the KU football program in front of the media, the trip is also a learning experience for his players and an opportunity which can help them beyond football.