The upcoming NFL Draft always sparks excitement, but this year, I find myself particularly intrigued by the prospects from BYU. It’s not just about who gets drafted—it’s about what their journey says about the program, the players, and the broader landscape of college football. Let’s dive in.
The BYU Paradox: Success on the Field, Questions in the Draft
BYU’s 11-2 record and Big 12 championship tie in 2024 were impressive feats, yet the absence of any players in the 2025 NFL Draft was a head-scratcher. Personally, I think this highlights a fascinating paradox in college football: team success doesn’t always translate to individual NFL prospects. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it challenges the narrative that winning programs automatically produce pro-ready talent. BYU’s recent history—with players like Zach Wilson and Puka Nacua making waves in the NFL—only adds to the intrigue. Was 2025 an anomaly, or is there something deeper at play?
Jack Kelly: The Sure Thing (Or Is He?)
All eyes are on linebacker Jack Kelly as BYU’s most likely draftee this year. In my opinion, Kelly’s versatility and combine performance make him a no-brainer for NFL scouts. But here’s the thing: mock drafts have him anywhere from the third to the sixth round. What this really suggests is that while Kelly is talented, the NFL’s evaluation of college linebackers remains inconsistent. From my perspective, Kelly’s ability to adapt to different roles could be his ticket to a long career, but the draft’s unpredictability means nothing is guaranteed.
Chase Roberts: The Underrated Leader
Chase Roberts is a player I find especially interesting. His durability and production at BYU are undeniable, yet his 4.64 40-yard dash at the combine raised eyebrows. What many people don’t realize is that combine numbers don’t always tell the full story. Roberts’ improved performance at BYU’s pro day and his leadership qualities could make him a steal for a team looking beyond the stopwatch. If you take a step back and think about it, the NFL is increasingly valuing intangibles like character and consistency—areas where Roberts excels.
Carsen Ryan: The Snubbed Tight End
Carsen Ryan’s combine snub is one of those head-scratching moments that makes you wonder about the NFL’s evaluation process. Personally, I think Ryan’s size, blocking ability, and breakout season at BYU should have earned him an invite. What this really suggests is that the combine system, while thorough, isn’t infallible. Ryan’s pro day performance answered questions about his strength and speed, but will it be enough? This raises a deeper question: How many talented players slip through the cracks because of a single missed opportunity?
Mory Bamba: The Sleeper Pick
Mory Bamba’s 4.27 40-yard dash at BYU’s pro day was the kind of moment that turns heads. What makes this particularly fascinating is how a player who flew under the radar for years suddenly becomes a potential NFL prospect. Bamba’s story is a reminder that talent can emerge in unexpected ways. From my perspective, his late bloom could be his greatest asset—he’s hungry, unproven, and ready to prove himself. But will NFL teams take the gamble?
The Bigger Picture: BYU’s NFL Pipeline
BYU’s NFL pipeline has had its ups and downs, but what’s most striking is the program’s ability to produce versatile, resilient players. Whether it’s Puka Nacua’s rise to stardom or Tyler Batty’s undrafted success, BYU players seem to thrive in adversity. This raises a deeper question: Is there something unique about BYU’s culture or coaching that prepares players for the NFL? Personally, I think it’s a combination of discipline, adaptability, and a chip-on-the-shoulder mentality that sets them apart.
Final Thoughts
As we head into the 2026 NFL Draft, BYU’s prospects are a mix of sure things, sleepers, and question marks. What’s clear is that the program continues to produce players who, regardless of draft status, have the potential to make an impact. In my opinion, the real story isn’t just about who gets drafted—it’s about the resilience, versatility, and grit that define BYU’s football culture. If you take a step back and think about it, that’s what makes this program, and its players, so compelling.
