The 2026 NFL Draft saw two Kansas Jayhawks hear their names called, but the buzz is already building for what's possible in 2027. With the college football season on the horizon, it's time to take a closer look at the next wave of potential pro talent wearing crimson and blue.
In April, offensive lineman Enrique Cruz Jr. was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the fifth round after an impressive redshirt senior campaign as the starting right tackle. His rise to the NFL combine was a testament to his hard work. Wide receiver Emmanuel Henderson Jr. followed in the sixth round to the Seattle Seahawks, earning All-Big 12 first-team honors as a returner and third-team accolades as a receiver. Both players proved that Kansas is becoming a pipeline for professional talent.
Now, the question shifts: Who will be next? Here are five Jayhawks to watch as they look to make their mark this fall and potentially position themselves for the 2027 NFL Draft:
Trey Lathan, Linebacker — Standing 6-foot-1 and 224 pounds, Lathan enters his redshirt senior season after transferring from West Virginia and leading the team in tackles in 2025. If Kansas's defense takes the step forward they're aiming for, he could emerge as an All-Big 12 standout and a name to remember on draft boards.
Calvin Clements, Offensive Lineman — At 6-foot-7 and 327 pounds, Clements is a redshirt junior who anchored the Jayhawks' line as the starting left tackle last season. His continued development is crucial, especially since Kansas has had an offensive lineman drafted in each of the last three years. He's poised to keep that streak alive.
Cam Pickett, Wide Receiver — A 6-foot, 200-pound redshirt senior, Pickett tied for the team lead in receptions last season. With a knack for making plays and experience as a go-to target, he has the tools to elevate his game and draw attention from scouts looking for reliable hands and route-running ability.
These players represent the next chapter for Kansas football, and as the season unfolds, they'll have every opportunity to turn potential into production. Keep your eyes on these Jayhawks—they might just be the ones making headlines in 2027.