Kansas Jayhawks shine in the 2026 NFL Draft. Discover standout prospects like Kobe Baynes and Jalon Daniels, and their paths to the pros.
2026 NFL Draft: Kansas Jayhawks Prospects and What to Expect
The 2026 NFL Draft is here and Kansas has a real shot to have multiple guys hear their names called again. That used to be rare, now it is starting to feel normal under Lance Leipold. There may not be any early round picks, but there are a few guys with legit chances to get drafted and stick.
Start with Kobe Baynes because he might be the safest pick out of the group. He did not get a Combine invite, which is surprising, but his production speaks for itself. Baynes started every game the past two seasons and played nearly 1,500 snaps. The biggest thing is he allowed zero sacks in 2025 on over 400 pass blocking reps. That kind of consistency is exactly what teams look for late in the draft. He feels like a Day 3 guy who could easily outplay his draft slot.
Jalon Daniels is the biggest name and probably the most interesting case. Everyone knows the talent is there. He has been busy during the pre draft process with multiple Top 30 visits including the Chiefs and Buccaneers. He had a solid Combine but really helped himself at Pro Day. Teams see him as a developmental quarterback who can move and make plays. He is also looking like a Day 3 pick and his landing spot is going to matter a lot.
After that, it gets less clear. Enrique Cruz Jr., Emmanuel Henderson Jr., and Laith Marjan all got Combine invites but are not trending toward being drafted right now. Same goes for Bryce Foster and Dean Miller who are further down big boards.
That said, a lot of these guys are still going to get their shot. Expect several of them to land as undrafted free agents and compete in camp. That is where rosters are really made for players like this.
Kansas might not have a headline name this year, but they are going to have representation. That says everything about how far the program has come.
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Paul Mbiya Returning Gives Kansas Stability in Frontcourt at Crucial Time
Paul Mbiya is back, and that’s a quiet but important win for the Kansas Jayhawks.
After weeks of uncertainty and NIL negotiations, Mbiya announced his return just before the transfer portal window closed. He never officially entered, but it was clear there was real consideration.
For Bill Self, this at least gives KU something to build around in the frontcourt.
Mbiya didn’t play much last season, averaging 1.2 points and 1.4 rebounds, but showed flashes late, especially in the NCAA Tournament. With the position now wide open, he has a real chance to step into a bigger role.
Kansas is still hosting bigs like Christian Reeves and Gabe Dynes, so more help is likely on the way. But for now, Mbiya gives KU a needed piece and some stability.