​FRISCO, Texas — Blake Herold enjoyed the opportunity to represent Kansas football at Big 12 Conference media days this year in July, in Frisco, Texas.It felt surreal, from Herold’s perspective, to be at the event — considering how big of a stage it was. The redshirt junior defensive tackle has had fun this offseason connecting with all of the newcomers and helping them understand what the culture is at KU. As much as there’s disappointment from how last season ended, and he knows there’s a need to close out games better, he thinks they can all learn from it and noted that they’ve added things to the end of workouts to help them better execute in crucial moments.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementRELATED: What Calvin Clements is saying ahead of Kansas football’s 2026 seasonHere are a few takeaways from what Herold, who’s also excited about playing a game overseas in London this season, had to say:What Herold has heard, is that there’s a need for him to step up as a leader — both for the defensive line and defense as a whole. That includes being more vocal. He’ll also look to improve in his execution, too, on a team that wants to be able to be better later in practices and workouts so that can translate to game days.Early on in his career, coming from a small town and not playing a significant role right away, Herold didn’t necessarily have the confidence to be outspoken. Now, though, his experience has allowed him to come out of his shell a bit. He’s grateful both for the opportunity to take another step himself, and in doing so help others.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHerold is excited about what’s been added at defensive tackle. There are transfers like redshirt senior Tre’von McAlpine (Tulane), redshirt freshman Kevin Oatis (Arkansas) and redshirt junior Jibriel Conde (Grand Valley State), who’ve been eager to learn. Herold’s helping them adapt to the KU system.One of Herold’s favorite things about the defense is how multiple they can be, especially up front. He loves being able to play multiple spots along the line, and it doesn’t matter to him whether he’s inside or outside. He anticipates Kansas’ defense trying to confuse offenses in 2026 with different looks.Herold noted the ability to do so many different things can give Kansas the opportunity to never consistently look the same up front or in the secondary. One play the Jayhawks could come out with three down linemen, and another play five. He thinks that’ll be fun for fans.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHerold also thinks the defense will likely be more prepared than any other because of everything they see from practicing against the KU offense. Associate head coach Andy Kotelnicki is back on staff, and Herold mentioned Kotelnicki’s offense is one of the craziest he’s seen with all of the motions and formations. Herold thinks they’ll be prepared to face anyone.Kansas redshirt senior defensive tackle Kenean Caldwell (9