The 2026 NFL Draft begins on April 23rd, 2026. For many college football athletes, these next three nights will be full of these athletes waiting for their phone to ring and name be called to accomplish their dream that they have worked tirelessly on for years.
In this year’s draft, the UCF Knights have two high prospects: defensive end Malachi Lawrence and defensive end Nyjalik Kelly. Malachi Lawrence is projected to be a first or second round pick. Other UCF prospects in this year’s draft include safety Philip Dunman, linebacker Keli Lawson, and running back Myles Montgomery.
Since 2017, UCF has had 17 players whose name was called and was drafted. Some of these players include:
- RJ Harvey – 2025, Round 2 Pick 60
- Javon Baker – 2024, Round 4 Pick 110
- Gabe Davis – 2020, Round 4 Pick 128
- Mike Hughes – 2018, Round 1 Pick 30
- Shaquill Griffin – 2017, Round 3 Pick 90
In total, UCF has had 52 players drafted into the NFL. Other notable names include Breshad Perriman, Blake Bortles, Brandon Marshall, and Latavius Murray.
The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in Pittsburgh and will start on Thursday April 23rd at 8 p.m. with round one, then it will go on to Friday April 24th at 7 p.m. for rounds two and three, and then will wrap up with round four through seven on Saturday April 25th at 12 p.m.
What Knights will get drafted into the NFL? When will they get drafted and who will draft them? Knight News will keep you up to date with any and all updates regarding Knights getting drafted.
