[6] In week eleven of the 2021 season, Fairchild would bring in two receptions for 31 yards and his first career touchdown, as he helped the Jayhawks stun Texas 57–56.
[9] In week six of the 2022 season, Fairchild would have an excellent performance, making three catches for 80 yards and a touchdown, but Kansas would narrowly fall to TCU 38–31.
[12][13] Fairchild would have another great game in the 2022 Liberty Bowl, where he brought in six receptions for 80 yards and a touchdown, but the Jayhawks could not pull off the win, losing 55–53 in triple overtime against Arkansas.
[17][18] Ahead of the 2023 season, Fairchild was named a preseason third-team all-Big 12 selection by Phil Steele and Athlon Sports.
[19][20] Fairchild would also be named to the John Mackey Award watch list, which is given to the nation's best tight end.