​FRISCO, Texas — Cam Pickett’s reasons for sticking with Kansas football in 2026 after the rough 2025 season aren’t overly complicated. The redshirt senior wide receiver feels he still has unfinished business in Lawrence. A former Ball State transfer, he likes KU, believes the coaches have confidence in him, and thinks the fans make it enjoyable to be there. There’s also the push from last year’s frustrating string of close losses and the awareness of what the team as a whole needs to improve.
Last season Pickett tied for the team lead in receptions and was second in receiving yards, and he says he’s more comfortable at Kansas now than during his first stint with KU in 2025. He’s gone through spring ball and summer workouts, and he knows what to expect in certain situations. It feels like he’s been around longer than just one year, and that sense of familiarity adds to his motivation to contribute in 2026.
In 2026, Pickett is part of a wide receiver room that he finds intriguing. He’s noticed younger players eager to learn and put in the work. Two transfers who’ve stood out to him are redshirt senior Nik McMillan from Buffalo and senior Nahzae Cox from Middle Tennessee, and he’s also encouraged by the hunger of returner redshirt junior Keaton Kubecka for a strong season.
Here are a few more takeaways from Pickett’s remarks in July during Big 12 Conference media days in Frisco, Texas: While some things will resemble last year, there will be differences as well. Andy Kotelnicki has returned as associate head coach and is aiming to help the offense take the next step. Pickett believes Kansas will be an explosive offensive team, with a roster full of players capable of big plays.
Junior running back Dylan Edwards, who transferred from Kansas State, has stood out to Pickett. He believes Edwards can line up anywhere on the field and impact the game, making life easier for the offense overall. Pickett describes Edwards as fast, elusive, and very knowledgeable about the game.
Fans will remember Tate Nagy as the lead punt returner last season, and Pickett expects Nagy to take on a broader role in the offense this year as a sophomore. He’s excited to see what Nagy can do. What impresses Pickett most is Nagy’s ability to operate as a slot receiver—he’s sure-handed, makes difficult catches, and can create separation when needed.
Kansas’ Sept. 19 matchup with Arizona State is scheduled to be played in London and will be featured on FOX’s Big Noon Kickoff. Pickett is among those looking forward to participating in a marquee game overseas. He understands the history behind the trip and the significance of representing Kansas on a global stage.
Overall, Pickett’s outlook for 2026 centers on continuity and growth. He’s embraced the opportunity to build on the experiences of the past year, appreciates the coaching staff’s plans for an improved offense, and looks forward to sharing the field with teammates who are hungry to prove themselves. His message is clear: there’s unfinished business in Lawrence, and he intends to finish what was started.