Jayhawks Daniels, Henderson, and Cruz impressed at the NFL Combine, showcasing speed, athleticism, and a determined drive for professional football careers.
Kansas Football Well Represented At NFL Combine As Jalon Daniels, Emmanuel Henderson and Enrique Cruz Turn Heads
Kansas football had a strong presence at the NFL combine this weekend as quarterback Jalon Daniels, wide receiver Emmanuel Henderson Jr., and offensive lineman Enrique Cruz Jr. each delivered notable performances, showcased their talents, and reflected on their journeys. For Daniels, the moment carried deeper meaning.
“Being at the NFL combine is a dream come true,” Daniels said. “I’ve been dreaming of being in this position, being able to stand on this podium before you guys since I was 7 years old.”
Daniels, who spent his entire college career at Kansas, emphasized his gratitude throughout the pre-draft process. He said he has embraced every interview and meeting with NFL teams, valuing the opportunity to “talk ball” and learn more about protections, concepts and offensive structure from pro coaches. Daniels also met with the Green Bay Packers during the combine.
On the field, Daniels posted a 4.66-second 40-yard dash with a 1.58 10-yard split, showing mobility that has long been a part of his game.
Henderson, a transfer from Alabama who starred in his lone season at Kansas, also made his mark. He ran a 4.44-second 40-yard dash with a 1.56 10-yard split, added a 35-inch vertical and a 10-foot broad jump.
Henderson credited his development in Lawrence for helping him reach this stage. Since the rebuild started with head coach Lance Leipold, more Kansas players have gotten a shot in the NFL.
“It was very supportive in Lawrence,” Henderson said. “They developed us a lot in Kansas, the hard work we did, ‘We Will’ program, it made us who we are today.”
Henderson added that playing in the Big 12 prepared him well for the next level, citing the variety of defenses he faced and Kansas’ aggressive, pass-heavy offense.
Cruz also turned heads. The 6-foot-1 offensive lineman ran an unofficial 4.64-second 40-yard dash with a 1.75 10-yard split, an eye-catching time for his position that drew attention on the NFL Network broadcast.
With the NFL Draft set for April, multiple Jayhawks strengthened their cases in Indianapolis, not just with testing numbers, but with the confidence and perspective they carried to the podium.
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