College football insider KMAC released his first-round 2026 NFL mock draft this week, and six Big 12 players were featured in the top 32, a significant showing for a conference often left out of the blueblood draft conversation.
Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson headlined the group at No. 3 overall, an aggressive but not shocking projection for one of the most dynamic offensive weapons in college football. Before suffering a hamstring strain last week, Tyson had been leading the Big 12 in every major receiving category and was on pace to break multiple school records. His combination of acceleration, fluid route-running, and ability to generate explosive plays makes him one of the most difficult covers in the country. With his frame and top-end production, Tyson fits the mold of a true WR1 at the next level.
Utah’s Spencer Fano slotted in at No. 9 and continues to solidify himself as one of the top offensive line prospects in the class. Fano has anchored Utah’s offensive front with clean mechanics and consistent pass protection against some of the best edge talent in the league. His athleticism in space and ability to seal rushing lanes have made him a centerpiece for the Utes.
Texas Tech was the only program with multiple first-round defensive selections, placing both David Bailey and Romello Height in the top 20. Bailey came in at No. 12 and has been one of the most disruptive pass rushers in the country this season. Height, ranked No. 16, offers a more versatile profile, able to play multiple fronts and drop into space when needed. Both players have helped reshape the Red Raiders’ defensive identity under Joey McGuire, giving Texas Tech a legitimate reputation for edge development.
Arizona State landed a second player in the first round with cornerback Keith Abney at No. 23. Abney has been a consistent presence on the boundary, showing strong press-man instincts and the ability to erase opposing WR1s. His length, physicality, and downhill trigger have all improved year-over-year, and he’s been one of the most consistent corners in the Big 12 through the first half of the season.
Utah’s Caleb Lomu rounded out the Big 12 selections at No. 28. At 6-foot-5, 315 pounds, Lomu has rotated between guard and tackle, giving scouts a wide sample of tape to evaluate. His strength at the point of attack and improving footwork in pass sets make him one of the more interesting late-first-round offensive linemen in the class.
Six players from three different Big 12 programs in the first round is a notable development for a league that has spent the last two years fighting to define itself post-realignment. If this group holds through April, the 2026 draft could mark one of the Big 12’s strongest first-round showings in recent memory.
