Lance Leipold Explains Why Kansas Star Missed Big 12 Media Days

Kansas head coach Lance Leipold provided the real reason why All-Big 12 center Bryce Foster did not attend the conference’s media days.

Oct 5, 2024; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Kansas Jayhawks offensive lineman Bryce Foster (61) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The health of Preseason All-Big 12 Team selection Bryce Foster was a topic Lance Leipold discussed during the Kansas Jayhawks’ appearance at Big 12 Media Days.

Foster was initially slated to go to the event but was removed from KU’s lineup of four student-athletes a day before it began. Tight end DeShawn Hanika, who missed the entire 2024 season, attended in his place.

“Bryce had a little procedure done that’s gonna hold him back a little bit,” Leipold told reporters. “They didn’t want him to fly, so, you know, he’ll be ready the opening game and stuff. But it was just a decision we had made. He’s disappointed.”

Leipold added that while he does not know the specifics of the injury, he expects him back halfway through fall camp.

Lance Leipold said Bryce Foster had a medical procedure done after a "tweak" during the summer, so he wasn't able to fly to media days. He should be ready for week zero and will return to full action about midway through fall camp.

— Henry Greenstein (@HenryGreenstein) July 9, 2025

Foster, who previously played at Texas A&M, was featured on the All-Big 12 Second Team during his first year in Lawrence.

The standout center is considered the Jayhawks’ best NFL prospect on the 2025 roster, landing No. 134 on Pro Football Focus’ big board for the upcoming draft.

The update isn’t something Jayhawk fans want to hear, let alone two weeks before fall camp begins.

Hopefully, Leipold’s prediction comes true and Foster is ready to take the field on Aug. 23 against Fresno State.