Arizona State has suffered a significant injury loss coming out of its Big 12-opening win over Kansas in London.
Starting tight end Khamari Anderson will miss the remainder of the 2026 season after suffering a left leg injury during Saturday’s 24-17 victory over the Jayhawks, according to Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro.
Anderson went down on just Arizona State’s second offensive play of the game when Kansas defensive end Leroy Harris III rolled over the back of his left leg. Anderson was eventually seen on the sideline in a walking boot and using crutches before being carted to the locker room.
Head coach Kenny Dillingham said following the game that Anderson would miss a “significant amount of time,” but Sunday’s report confirmed the injury will end his season.
It’s an especially difficult development considering Anderson’s road back to the field this year. He suffered a broken tibia during the spring and underwent surgery before returning in time to play early in the season.
Anderson caught just five passes for 24 yards and one touchdown in 13 games in 2025, but his value went well beyond the stat sheet. He emerged as one of the Big 12’s better blocking tight ends, earning a 72.6 run-blocking grade, and entered 2026 as Arizona State’s projected starter with expectations that his role in the passing game would grow significantly following the departures of Chamon Metayer and Cameron Harpole.
Anderson had one reception for 21 yards through three games this season. While his receiving numbers were limited, the senior was Arizona State’s starting tight end and a member of the program’s Tillman Leadership Council.
The Sun Devils will now turn to A.J. Ia, Anthony Miller and James Giggey for additional work at tight end. Ia could provide Arizona State with more of a receiving threat at the position.
Arizona State enters its bye week at 2-1 after bouncing back from its loss to Texas A&M with Saturday’s win over Kansas. The Sun Devils return to action against Baylor on October 3.
