Even though we just wrapped up a memorable 2025 NFL Draft, it’s never too early to start thinking about next year. While we don’t know who’s officially on the clock just yet, there’s no doubt a wave of elite talent will be eyeing that first-round moment in 2026.
A total of 31 Big 12 players were selected this year, but only two—Travis Hunter and Tetairoa McMillan—heard their names called on Day 1. Could that number double next year? At least one analyst thinks so.
ESPN’s Jordan Reid released his way-too-early 2026 NFL Mock Draft, and he has four Big 12 players projected in the first round. Here’s who he has going and why they’re already on the radar.
No. 12 – Utah OT Spencer Fano
Reid has Spencer Fano slotted as the third offensive tackle off the board, and it’s easy to see why. Fano plays with a physical edge and isn’t afraid to finish blocks. He’s started 24 career games for the Utes—11 at left tackle and 13 at right tackle—and offers flexibility at multiple positions, with some projecting a potential move to guard at the next level.
No. 23 – Utah OT Caleb Lomu
Another Utah lineman cracks the first round, as Reid projects Caleb Lomu to come off the board at No. 23. Lomu appeared in just three games as a freshman but started all 12 games in 2024. This is a high-upside projection, with Reid noting Lomu’s potential to add size and make a major leap in 2025. If he does, Utah could have two tackles taken on Day 1.
No. 24 – Colorado CB DJ McKinney
McKinney began his career at Oklahoma State, where he played in all 14 games during the Cowboys’ run to the 2023 Big 12 title game. After transferring to Colorado, he started every game for the Buffs and led the team with 840 defensive snaps in 2024.
McKinney posted 62 total tackles, nine pass breakups, three interceptions, and added a forced fumble and fumble recovery. At 6’2″, 190 pounds, he’s got the frame and physicality that NFL scouts love at corner.
No. 28 – Texas Tech EDGE David Bailey
A major portal pickup for Texas Tech this offseason, David Bailey comes over from Stanford, where he had a breakout junior campaign. In 2024, Bailey led the Cardinal in tackles for loss (8.0), sacks (7.0), quarterback hurries (8), and forced fumbles (5).
At 6’3”, 250, Bailey projects as a stand-up pass rusher at the next level and could be Texas Tech’s first first-rounder since Tyree Wilson in 2023.
Final Thoughts
If Jordan Reid’s projections hold, this would mark the most Big 12 first-round picks since 2023 (8) and the third-most in the last 14 years. While it’s still early, seeing twice as many Big 12 names in next year’s mock compared to this past draft is a step in the right direction.
And with names like Bailey, McKinney, Fano, and Lomu already catching first-round buzz, the Big 12’s presence on Day 1 could be stronger than ever in 2026.
