Numerous Cats Get Big Opportunity
Since 2019, the Kentucky Football program has had 26 players selected in the NFL Draft. That’s the biggest run of draft picks for the school since the 1970’s. The Mark Stoops era is over in Lexington, and the Will Stein era is upon us. However, that doesn’t mean more of Stoops’ former players won’t hear their name called in April’s NFL Draft. A major step in that is impressing scouts in Indianapolis. Of the 319 invites sent out by the league, several Cats are getting that opportunity. Let’s introduce you to them as Six Former Kentucky Wildcats Get NFL Combine Invite.
Top Defensive Lineman
During his one season in Lexington, David Gusta didn’t have the best numbers for the Kentucky defense. Playing in 12 games, Gusta recorded 12 tackles and recorded one sack. Of course, much of the NFL Draft is based on potential rather than college stats. In fact, several early mock drafts have Gusta toward the top of the defensive line prospects. CBS Sports’ Ryan Wilson has the former Cat as the 71st-best prospect in the draft. In addition, he’s listed as the ninth-best defensive lineman. A strong showing at the combine should give Gusta a great chance at an early third-day selection.
Let’s turn our attention to a couple of skill players as six former Kentucky Wildcats get an NFL Combine Invite.
Two Offensive Prospects
A season ago, Seth McGowan was the Wildcats’ leading rusher with 723 yards. Furthermore, his 12 touchdowns placed him fourth in the SEC. McGowan was selected to play in the Senior Bowl and led the National team with 35 yards rushing, including a game-long 30-yarder. NBC Sports’ Eric Froton ranks him seventh best running back in the draft. A couple of early mock drafts by Clutch Points have him going to either Denver or Minnesota in the third round.
Kendrick Law came to Kentucky after three years at Alabama. He developed a good rapport with quarterback Cutter Boley as he finished the 2025 season with 53 catches. That’s 25 more than the next Wildcat. In addition, he led the team with 540 yards and was second with three touchdowns. Law was selected to play in the East-West Shrine Game but missed the contest due to an injury. He’s listed as a late third-day pick who could also see time as a return man.
I’ve studied some really good WRs today. 2 of my favorites 👇🏻
IU Omar Cooper Jr- tough, physical yac, strong hands. Great feel.
KY Kendrick Law- explosive, strong lower, dynamic with ball.
— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) February 10, 2026
It’s time to look at the big guys up front as six former Kentucky Wildcats get an NFL Combine invite.
Big Blue Wall To The NFL
Many in the Big Blue Nation were surprised when Jalen Farmer declared for the draft. Had he returned to school, he was in line to be one of the top offensive linemen in the SEC. However, it looks like his decision may have been a good one. The Athletic ranks him as the 81st best prospect in the draft. A couple of early mock drafts have him going anywhere from the fourth to the sixth round. Wherever he ends up, Farmer should be the first UK lineman taken since Luke Fortner and Darian Kinnard went in 2022.
Of the six former Cats receiving combine invites, Jager Burton is the only one who was recruited to Kentucky. Burton turned some heads with his performance at the Shrine Bowl. He looks like another possible day three pick for Kentucky. One mock draft has him going to the Detroit Lions in round six.
Kentucky IOL Jager Burton will be drafted as a Center, but his interior versatility & experience is the real sell. Team w/ multiple IOL needs>
🔹23 starts at LG
🔹15 at Center
🔹9 at RG
🧬Dad played at Morehead State
Doesn’t panic with his strengthy base anchor & athletic feet… pic.twitter.com/tPcYgBOLSs
— Clint Goss (@NFLDraftDome) January 24, 2026
Joshua Braun came to Kentucky for his final year of college football after three years at Florida and two at Arkansas. He appeared in 62 games during his college career. He’s another player who spent time at the Shrine Bowl. Pro Football Focus sends him to Washington in the seventh round.
Final Thoughts
For a team that finished a disappointing 5-7, having six players invited to the NFL Combine is a pretty good accomplishment. Assuming everyone performs as they can during the showcase, it’s likely Kentucky gets several more players drafted in 2026. Most likely it will be a busy day three. Thanks for checking out this look as six former Kentucky players get NFL Combine Invite.
Main Image: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images