LEXINGTON — Mark Stoops no longer is Kentucky football's coach. But his replacement, Will Stein, aims to keep up a streak started by his predecessor.
The Wildcats have had at least two players selected in the NFL draft in seven straight years. That's the program's best run since it accomplished the feat eight straight times from the 1984 through 1991 drafts.
It's uncertain how many UK players will be drafted in 2026. The draft began Thursday with the 32-pick first round and no ex-Kentucky players heard their names called.
Though it's not always an indicator of being a future pick, looking at those who earned an invite to the NFL combine is a good place to start. Six UK players had that honor last month: running back Seth McGowan, wide receiver Kendrick Law, defensive lineman David Gusta and offensive lineman Josh Braun, Jager Burton and Jalen Farmer.
Follow along here as we track when former Wildcats come off the board in the 2026 NFL Draft, as well as those who sign contracts as undrafted free agents (UDFAs) afterward.
The second round of the 2026 NFL Draft will begin at 7 p.m., with the third round capping tonight.
The fourth round starts at noon Saturday; the draft concludes that day with Rounds 5, 6 and 7.
Stream: NFL+; ESPN Unlimited & Select; Fubo (free trial)
The NFL draft will air nationally on ESPN, ESPN2, and NFL Network. It also can be streamed on ESPN+ and NFL+.
Another streaming option is Fubo, which offers a free trial.
Reach Kentucky men’s basketball and football reporter Ryan Black at rblack@gannett.com and follow him on X at @RyanABlack.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky Wildcats football NFL draft 2026 picks so far for UK Wildcats