Kansas Bolsters Defensive Front with Three-Star DL Commit

Rated a three-star recruit and roughly the No. 684 prospect nationally in the 2026 cycle, Carter held offers from Houston, Iowa State, Kansas State, UCF, and Utah, among others.

Carter projects as an interior defensive tackle, and while slightly undersized, possesses the frame and athletic profile that coaches believe he can develop into Big 12 standards.

Carter’s commitment exemplifies how KU is making strategic inroads in Oklahoma and Texas, territories where Big 12 competition is fierce. Beating schools like K‑State and Iowa State for talent in Moore is a positive indicator.

With Carter’s addition, Kansas secures its second defensive tackle commit in the 2026 class, joining Landen Anderson. The move bolsters a defensive front that is set to lose veteran tackles Tommy Dunn Jr. and D.J. Withers after this season, freeing up significant playing time.

Na’Kwaine Carter’s commitment reinforces KU’s clear, targeted approach to land physical, versatile DL talent from the southern Big 12 pipelines. With early competition and positional need aligned, Kansas further cements its stance as an up-and-coming contender in the conference.