BYU’s Hidden NFL Draft Gems: Who Will Shock Scouts in 2026? Don’t Miss These Names!

As April arrives, football fans across the nation eagerly anticipate the NFL Draft, taking place this year in Pittsburgh, PA, from April 23 to April 25. This event is a pivotal moment for college athletes and their professional aspirations, and this year, the spotlight is on a new generation of prospects from **Brigham Young University (BYU)**. Following a strong tradition of players transitioning to the NFL, including notable names like **Puka Nacua**, **Taysom Hill**, **Fred Warner**, **Tyler Allgeier**, and **Kyle Van Noy**, the Cougars are hoping to continue that legacy.

Among the hopefuls for the 2026 NFL Draft, a few players stand out as potential candidates who might hear their names called. However, the overall outlook for this year's BYU contingent is modest, with only a handful of players likely to be drafted.

Jack Kelly, LB

Leading the charge is **Jack Kelly**, a linebacker who has made a significant impact during his two seasons at BYU after transferring from **Weber State**. In this time, he accumulated 106 tackles, 15 sacks, and 23.5 tackles for loss, showcasing impressive sideline-to-sideline range—an essential trait for modern NFL linebackers. While NFL scouts raise concerns about his ability to handle coverage and the grueling demands of a professional season, Kelly's physical attributes and leadership qualities make him an intriguing prospect. Even if he doesn't get drafted, he has a great chance to become an asset on special teams or as a fill-in linebacker.

Chase Roberts, WR

Next is **Chase Roberts**, a wide receiver whose draft chances are slim but who could attract interest as an undrafted free agent. He initially clocked a 4.64-second 40-yard dash but improved to 4.51 at BYU’s Pro Day. Although he lacks the elite speed that many NFL teams covet, Roberts, standing at 6-foot-3 with impressive length and reliable hands, could find favor with an NFL coach. If he lands in the right system with a strong quarterback, there’s potential for him to make a 53-man roster and contribute during a season.

Carsen Ryan, TE

**Carsen Ryan**, a tight end, may also have a shot at being drafted. He had a standout year in Provo, racking up 45 receptions for 620 yards and three touchdowns—his best season to date. While he may not possess elite traits, his versatility and willingness to block, combined with his pass-catching abilities, make him a candidate for a practice squad position. His performance with quarterback **Bear Bachmeier** suggests that he could be a valuable option for a team in need of tight end depth.

Isaiah Jatta, OT

**Isaiah Jatta** brings significant experience to the table, having played extensively at both tackle positions at BYU. Coaches highlight his football IQ, and he was graded as one of the top run-blocking tackles in the **Big 12**. While he may not have the desired length typically sought by NFL teams, Jatta's experience and intelligence could make him a viable practice squad candidate.

Will Ferrin, K

**Will Ferrin**, a kicker, faces an uphill battle as only a few kickers get drafted each year. Following a stellar 2024 season, where he earned **First Team All-Big 12** honors and was named **Big 12 Co-Special Teams Player of the Year**, expectations were high. However, his performance dipped in 2025, with his field goal percentage dropping from 88.9% to 76.7%. Despite this, his late-game heroics and long-distance kicks could still earn him an opportunity in an NFL training camp.

Mory Bamba, CB

Finally, **Mory Bamba** may have garnered attention after clocking a blistering 4.27-second 40-yard dash at BYU’s Pro Day, a time that would have been the fastest among cornerbacks at the NFL Combine. Although he didn't receive an invite to the event, his explosive capabilities, highlighted by an 11-foot-1 broad jump, position him as a sleeper candidate that NFL teams might consider after previously overlooking him.

This year's NFL Draft will undoubtedly be a moment of hope for these BYU athletes as they strive to turn their college successes into professional opportunities. As the Cougars continue their tradition of producing NFL talent, these players will be looking to carve out their own legacies on the grandest stage of American football.