Enrique Cruz Jr. wrapped up Kansas football Pro Day with a sense of accomplishment and optimism. As a former Syracuse transfer and the Jayhawks’ right tackle in 2025, Cruz is eyeing the NFL, inspired by the success of his predecessors. Logan Brown and Bryce Cabeldue, who manned the tackle positions in 2024, recently celebrated Super Bowl victories with the Seattle Seahawks.
Cruz, reflecting on his journey, shared, “Meeting Logan and Bryce and seeing their success is incredible. It’s a testament to the opportunities that come from playing here.”
Kansas has become a reliable launchpad for offensive linemen, with Dominick Puni making an immediate impact for the San Francisco 49ers after being picked in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Under head coach Lance Leipold, several Jayhawks linemen have transitioned to the professional level, and he’s confident this trend will continue with Cruz, Kobe Baynes, and Bryce Foster.
“Our guys have consistently found opportunities, whether drafted or as free agents,” Leipold noted. “I expect the same for this year’s seniors.”
The Pro Day event, held at KU’s indoor practice facility, showcased the talents of Cruz, Baynes, Foster, and Nolan Gorczyca. Cruz credits offensive line coach Daryl Agpalsa for his development, saying, “Coach Agpalsa has been instrumental not just for me, but for all of us.”
Cruz’s standout performances in the offseason, including a strong showing at the American Bowl and the NFL Scouting Combine, have bolstered his draft prospects. His impressive 4.94-second 40-yard dash and 35-inch vertical jump earned him a spot on NFL.com’s all-combine team.
“I’ve always believed in my abilities, even when others doubted me,” Cruz said. “Proving them wrong has been a driving force.”
Cruz’s path to potential NFL stardom wasn’t straightforward. After leaving Syracuse in 2025, where he’d lost his starting spot, he found a new home at Kansas.
“He was exactly what we needed,” Leipold remarked. “His growth and performance during conference play were impressive.”
Winning the starting right tackle job was a challenge, but Cruz rose to the occasion, delivering some of his best performances against top teams like Cincinnati and Oklahoma State. His decision to join Kansas was pivotal, and he reflects on it fondly. “Choosing Kansas was one of the best decisions I’ve made,” he said.
Participating in KU’s first on-campus Pro Day in three years, Cruz was among 23 Jayhawks showcasing their skills. The return to individual Pro Days was well-received, offering players a familiar and comfortable environment.
“This was a significant day for our program and these seniors,” Leipold said. “The turnout of scouts speaks volumes about their talent and potential.”
For Cruz, the journey from Syracuse to Kansas has been transformative, and as he trains alongside teammates like Gorczyca, the future looks bright. The Pro Day was more than just a showcase; it was a celebration of hard work, perseverance, and the dream of playing at football’s highest level.