Kansas football continues its momentum on the recruiting trail, securing a commitment from three-star defensive lineman Na’Kwaine Carter of Southmoore High School (Moore, Okla.).
The 6-foot-1, 256-pound lineman announced his decision on social media Sunday, becoming the 18th commit in KU’s 2026 class.
Ranked as a three-star prospect and approximately the No. 684 player nationally in the 2026 cycle, Carter chose Kansas over offers from Houston, Iowa State, Kansas State, UCF, and Utah, among others.
Carter is projected to play as an interior defensive tackle. Though slightly undersized, his frame and athleticism give coaches confidence in his development to Big 12 standards.
His commitment highlights KU’s growing influence in Oklahoma and Texas—key recruiting grounds with intense Big 12 competition. Winning a battle in Moore over schools like K-State and Iowa State is a promising sign.
Carter is now the second defensive tackle pledge in the 2026 class, joining Landen Anderson. His addition strengthens a defensive front that is expected to lose veterans Tommy Dunn Jr. and D.J. Withers after the season, creating major opportunities for new talent.
Na’Kwaine Carter’s decision underscores Kansas’ focused strategy to recruit physical, versatile DL prospects from core Big 12 regions. With positional needs and early interest aligning, the Jayhawks continue to build their case as a rising force in the conference.