Despite the 2026 NFL Draft set to take place in Pittsburgh, Texas A&M receiver KC Concepcion has been a dealt a cruel blow that needed medical intervention with the help of a Dallas Cowboys doctor
08:16 ET, 17 Mar 2026
KC Concepcion impressed during the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis
View 2 Images
KC Concepcion impressed during the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis(Image: Getty Images)
Texas A&M receiver KC Concepcion has been forced to undergo surgery on the eve of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Concepcion — among those slated to be taken in the first round in the latest mock draft by the Mirror U.S. — has been backed by many to come off the board early when the NFL Draft begins in Pittsburgh next month. However, he has undergone a knee procedure, casting doubt on his potential high selection.
Article continues below
The 21-year-old, who has spoken out in support of those with speech impediments like himself, reportedly underwent a routine arthroscopic surgery. The operation was undertaken by the Dallas Cowboys' team doctor, Daniel Cooper.
Article continues below
READ MORE: Ex-NFL star's college QB son who beat cancer killed at 28 in tragic accidentREAD MORE: Troy Aikman issues update on Miami Dolphins role after ESPN uncertainty
Even after the surgery, Concepcion is still expected to be back in time for rookie minicamp in May. But the news is still unideal for a receiver who could be in play for the likes of the San Francisco 49ers, Denver Broncos, and Buffalo Bills at the end of the first round.
Concepcion spent his first two collegiate seasons at North Carolina State before transferring to Texas A&M. He produced a consensus All-American campaign, finishing with 919 yards and 10 touchdowns.
He was a three-time first-team All-SEC selection in 2025 alone, earning the nomination at receiver, all-purpose, and as a returner. AT NC State, he was the 2023 ACC Rookie of the Year and a second-team All-ACC selection.
His stock had also risen at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he battled through a stutter to speak with reporters about his aspirations in the NFL. Concepcion told reporters he wanted to be a "role model for those who may be scared to speak up."
Sign up to our NFL newsletter here
KC Concepcion starred for Texas A&M after two seasons at NC State
View 2 Images
KC Concepcion starred for Texas A&M after two seasons at NC State(Image: Getty Images)
He took to Instagram, posting a lengthy caption to his Story outlining his thoughts after going viral for his speech in Indianapolis. He posted: “I just wanna say something if you have a speech impediment there is nothing wrong with us. I have had this stutter since I can remember talking this is apart of me this is who l am I cannot control this [sic].
“I wanna be a role model for those who may be scared to speak up who may be afriad and not confident in yourself. I stand with you this weekend has taught me a lot about myself and people out here"
“In this world. I appreciate everyone who supports me and has reached out to me after these interviews. Don't let a outside person thoughts, opinions get in the way of you being great of you achieving something in life."
Article continues below
“l m blessed to be in the position that l am in and I want to help give back to those who are scared to speak up who aren't as confident."
“I stand with you I will always stand with you. We are different for a reason. God has blessed my life in a way I couldn't even imagine in this past year. I love yall and support yall as we climb this mountain together.”