Lance Leipold’s Recruiting Philosophy: Building a Program with Purpose
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Lance Leipold, the head football coach at the University of Kansas, has emerged as one of the most respected figures in college football due to his ability to rebuild programs and maximize talent. His success isn't rooted in flashy gimmicks but rather a disciplined approach to recruiting, a commitment to development, and a clear vision for his program. Leipold's philosophy is centered on finding players who fit his system and values—a strategy that has proven effective at every stop in his career.
A Focus on Character and Commitment
“We’re not just looking for the most talented players; we’re looking for the right players,” Leipold often says when discussing his recruiting approach. This mantra highlights his emphasis on character, work ethic, and a team-first mentality. He values recruits who demonstrate resilience, a love for the game, and a willingness to embrace a culture of accountability.
Leipold’s ideal prospect is not just a great athlete but also a student of the game. “Football IQ is huge for us,” he explains. “We want players who understand the game and are willing to put in the effort to improve every day.” He seeks recruits who are coachable and willing to buy into his program’s vision, often stating that “you can’t teach heart or dedication.”
Leveraging NIL and the Transfer Portal
In the evolving landscape of college football, where Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the transfer portal play pivotal roles, Leipold has managed to navigate these challenges with a pragmatic approach. “NIL is a part of the game now, but it can’t be the foundation of why a player chooses our program,” he says. Instead, Leipold emphasizes the long-term benefits of playing at Kansas, such as development, exposure, and a strong team culture.
Leipold’s decision-making with NIL money reflects his belief in balanced priorities. He works closely with the university’s NIL collective to ensure that deals are structured to support players without undermining the team dynamic. “We’re not going to promise the moon,” he explains. “But we’ll promise a program that invests in you on and off the field.”
The transfer portal, meanwhile, has become a key tool in Leipold’s recruiting strategy. He uses it to fill immediate needs and add experienced players who can contribute right away. However, Leipold is careful not to rely too heavily on transfers, preferring to build his roster through high school recruits. “The portal is a great resource, but it’s not a shortcut,” he notes. “We’re still focused on developing players over time.”
Competing for Recruits
Recruiting at Kansas comes with its challenges, especially when competing against traditional powerhouses. Leipold’s strategy revolves around authenticity and relationships. “We’re honest with recruits,” he says. “We tell them what we’re about and what they can expect here. It’s not about selling a dream; it’s about selling a plan.”
Leipold and his staff prioritize early identification and consistent communication. They build trust with recruits and their families by being transparent and accessible. “The key is showing them that they’re wanted and that we have a plan for their future,” Leipold explains. He also emphasizes the importance of visits, ensuring that recruits experience the family atmosphere of the Kansas program firsthand.
Key Attributes of an Ideal Prospect
Leipold’s recruiting evaluations go beyond highlight reels and combine stats. Here are the key attributes he looks for in a prospect:
Work Ethic: “We want grinders,” he says. “Guys who love the process and are willing to put in the work every single day.”
Versatility: Leipold values players who can adapt to different roles. “The more you can do, the more valuable you are to the team,” he explains.
Team-First Attitude: “Selflessness is non-negotiable,” Leipold emphasizes. “We’re building something bigger than any one individual.”
Football IQ: He looks for players who understand schemes and can quickly process information on the field.
Resilience: “How a player responds to adversity tells us a lot about who they are,” he notes. “We want players who don’t back down from challenges.”
What Leipold Looks for on Film
When evaluating film, Leipold and his staff focus on specific traits and skills for each position:
Quarterback: Decision-making, poise under pressure, accuracy, and the ability to extend plays. “We want a quarterback who can lead and make smart choices in critical moments,” Leipold says.
Running Back: Vision, balance, and the ability to break tackles. “We’re looking for guys who can make something out of nothing and have a knack for finding the hole,” he explains.
Wide Receiver: Route-running precision, hands, and yards-after-catch ability. Leipold emphasizes receivers who “can separate and make contested catches.”
Offensive Line: Footwork, strength, and versatility. “We need linemen who can move and handle different assignments,” he notes.
Defensive Line: Quickness off the snap, hand technique, and motor. “Disruption is the name of the game for our defensive linemen,” Leipold says.
Linebacker: Instincts, tackling ability, and range. He values linebackers who “can diagnose plays quickly and cover ground.”
Defensive Back: Ball skills, recovery speed, and physicality. “We want defensive backs who can play both man and zone effectively,” he explains.
Special Teams: Consistency and effort. Leipold views special teams as a critical part of the game and looks for players who “embrace their role and excel in execution.”
Preparing Recruits for Campus Life and Competition
Once recruits commit to Kansas, Leipold ensures they transition smoothly into college life and the demands of Division I football. His process begins with a comprehensive onboarding program that includes academic support, life skills training, and team integration. “We want our players to feel supported in every aspect of their lives,” Leipold says. “That means helping them adjust to the classroom, the campus, and the locker room.”
Leipold emphasizes the importance of building routines early. Freshmen and new transfers participate in orientation sessions that cover everything from time management to nutrition. Academic advisors work closely with the coaching staff to ensure players are set up for success in the classroom, while strength and conditioning coaches focus on preparing them physically for the rigors of college football.
On the field, Leipold encourages competition from day one. “Every player has a chance to earn their spot,” he says. Practices are designed to be highly competitive, with an emphasis on fundamentals and situational awareness. New players are paired with veteran mentors who help them navigate the program’s expectations and culture. “It’s about creating an environment where everyone pushes each other to be their best,” Leipold explains.
Leipold also uses preseason camp to evaluate and integrate new recruits. He believes in giving players opportunities to showcase their skills in live-action scenarios, helping them acclimate to the speed and intensity of the college game. “We’re not just preparing them to play; we’re preparing them to compete,” he says.
Developing NFL Talent
Lance Leipold’s track record of player development is a cornerstone of his coaching legacy. Many players who have thrived under his tutelage have gone on to achieve success in the NFL. One notable example is Khalil Mack, who played for Leipold at the University at Buffalo. Under Leipold’s guidance, Mack transformed from a lightly recruited high school player into one of the most dominant defenders in college football. “Khalil’s work ethic and drive were incredible, but it was about putting him in a position to succeed and grow,” Leipold recalls. Mack went on to become a top-five pick in the NFL Draft and a perennial All-Pro.
Another standout is James Starks, who also played for Leipold at Buffalo. Starks became a key contributor to the Green Bay Packers’ Super Bowl XLV championship team. Leipold credits Starks’ versatility and commitment to improvement as factors in his success. “James was always willing to do the extra work, and that’s what separated him,” Leipold says.
Beyond individual players, Leipold’s impact is evident in the way his teams consistently outperform expectations. “Our goal is to develop players who can reach their full potential, whether that’s in college or the NFL,” Leipold emphasizes. He focuses on teaching fundamentals and instilling a professional mindset in his players, ensuring they are prepared for the next level.
The Commitment Blueprint
To secure commitments, Leipold focuses on creating a vision that resonates with recruits. This includes showcasing Kansas’ facilities, academic support, and the opportunity to be part of a program on the rise. He leverages testimonials from current and former players to highlight the program’s culture and the impact it has had on their lives.
“It’s about showing them that Kansas is a place where they can grow as players and as people,” he explains. Leipold also emphasizes the importance of developing life skills, often telling recruits, “We’re not just preparing you for football; we’re preparing you for life.”
Conclusion
Lance Leipold’s recruiting philosophy is a blend of old-school values and modern adaptability. By focusing on character, development, and authenticity, he has created a blueprint for sustained success at Kansas. In a world of quick fixes and flashy promises, Leipold’s commitment to doing things the right way stands out as a model for building a program with purpose.
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