Calvin Clements focusing on improvement, believes Kotelnicki will help offense

Kansas offensive lineman Calvin Clements has become one of the veterans up front after taking over as the Jayhawks’ starting left tackle last season. Heading into 2026, Clements said the focus this offseason has gone beyond individual improvement as the offensive line works to build leadership. As preseason camp is two weeks away, Clements talked about his own development, the return of associate head coach Andy Kotelnicki and what it has been like blocking for a new group of quarterbacks after Jalon Daniels graduated. Clements focused on leadership, molding the OL After stepping into the starting left tackle role a year ago, Clements said this offseason has been about continuing to develop his game and taking on a leadership role. He said the work has extended with players spending extra time together on the field throughout the summer. “It’s been great,” Clements said. “It’s been a lot of hard work, no doubt. We’ve been doing a lot of extra work as players, just making sure we’re spending time on the field and getting extra work in.” Along with improving physically, Clements said he has made it a priority to become more vocal. He believes the team’s commitment to improve has helped the culture heading into the season and helped bring everyone closer together. “A big focus for me, especially this summer, has just been stepping up as a leader,” Clements said. “Making sure I’m getting the whole team behind us and bringing this thing together. This group really cares a lot about personal development, so bringing it together and making sure it’s team development first, I think it’s been coming together quite nicely.” The return of Andy Kotelnicki One of the biggest storylines entering the season has been the return of Andy Kotelnicki, who was the first offensive coordinator for Lance Leipold before spending the last two seasons at Penn State. Now he’s back as associate head coach and Clements believes it will help. “To be honest, Coach K’s offense excites me,” Clements said. “His ability to be explosive and how he puts the run first, and how that sets up the over-the-top explosive plays. And some of the running backs we brought in as well, it’s a pleasure working with them.” Clements stopped short of saying something was missing during Kotelnicki’s absence, he said there is a level of confidence that comes with having a coach back who has already experienced success at Kansas. “I don’t think so,” Clements said. “But I think there definitely is something to him coming back. I would say just confidence because of what he’s already done here.”