UCF may have landed one of the biggest steals in the 2026 recruiting cycle - and the national spotlight is starting to agree. Wide receiver Tyren Hornes, a four-star prospect and one of the Knights’ final pickups in this class, is already drawing serious NFL buzz before ever stepping on a college field.
Hornes made his commitment official in early January, announcing his decision during the Under Armour All-America Game - a stage he knows well. This was his second consecutive appearance in the prestigious event, and last year, he didn’t just show up - he dominated, earning MVP honors and setting the tone for a standout senior season at Booker High School.
Now, as he prepares to take the next step in his football journey, Hornes is getting national recognition for more than just his highlight-reel plays. ESPN recently tabbed him as the wide receiver in the 2026 class with the highest NFL upside, spotlighting his advanced skillset, versatility, and competitive fire.
According to ESPN analysts Craig Haubert and Tom Luginbill, Hornes checks every box for what NFL teams covet in a modern wideout: intelligence, toughness, explosiveness, and a relentless motor. They praised his polished game and pro-ready approach, noting his ability to make plays in space, win contested catches, and create separation with elite footwork and suddenness. Whether he’s working the boundary as a vertical threat or slipping into the slot to exploit mismatches, Hornes brings a dynamic presence to the field.
“He’s got excellent ball skills and a professional attitude,” they wrote. “Get the ball in his hands and he’s going to make plays. He’s a high-energy player who loves to compete.”
Hornes’ agility and quickness allow him to separate cleanly as a route runner, and his hands - quick and reliable - let him snatch the ball out of the air with ease. He’s the kind of receiver who can be used all over the formation: outside, inside, on jet sweeps, or in screen packages. That versatility translates to big-time YAC (yards after catch), a premium trait in today’s college and pro offenses.
This evaluation echoes what 247 Sports’ Director of Scouting Andrew Ivins wrote back in November, months before Hornes made his college decision official. Ivins highlighted Hornes’ refined route-running and explosiveness, calling him “an advanced route runner with noticeable juice in the lower half” who can haul in tough catches and turn short throws into chunk plays.
Hornes’ rise didn’t happen overnight, but it certainly accelerated after his MVP showing at the Under Armour camp. That performance caught the eye of several powerhouse programs, including Georgia, Florida State, and Auburn, who quickly extended offers. And it wasn’t just the camp circuit where he shined - Hornes put up video game numbers as a junior and followed it up with a strong senior campaign: 42 catches, 646 yards, and nine touchdowns in just 10 games.
Now, he steps into a UCF wide receiver room that’s already stacked with talent and experience. The Knights return key contributors like junior Duane “Speedy” Thomas, rising freshman Waden Charles, and junior tight end Dylan Wade - who just set a program record for receiving yards by a tight end last season.
Hornes won’t have to carry the load right away, but don’t be surprised if he finds his way onto the field early. His skillset is too polished, his upside too high, and his motor too relentless to keep him on the sidelines for long. UCF may have landed a future star - and the NFL is already watching.