Missouri football is staring down a potentially historic moment - one that could see a record number of Tigers hearing their names called at the 2026 NFL Draft this April in Pittsburgh. The current program high stands at seven players taken in a single draft, set back in 1981.
Under head coach Eli Drinkwitz, the Tigers came close last year with six selections. But this year’s crop?
It might just raise the bar.
According to CBS Sports draft analyst Mike Renner’s latest top 150 prospects list, released on December 17, six current Mizzou players made the cut. That group includes a mix of seasoned seniors and underclassmen who still have eligibility - and decisions to make. If even a few more players declare or rise during the pre-draft process, Missouri could be looking at a record-setting draft class.
Let’s break down the Tigers who’ve already caught the attention of NFL scouts - and who else might be on the verge of joining them.
Josiah Trotter, LB - Ranked No. 74
Trotter is the kind of linebacker who jumps off the tape. A redshirt sophomore and West Virginia transfer, he led Mizzou in tackles this season and graded out as one of the SEC’s top linebackers. That’s no small feat in a conference loaded with future pros.
He’s eligible to declare early and has the pedigree to back it up - his father played in the NFL, and his brother is currently with the Eagles. Trotter’s instincts and ability to diagnose plays have made him a rising name on draft boards.
However, he’ll miss the Gator Bowl after undergoing a minor knee procedure. It’s not expected to impact his long-term outlook, but it’s something scouts will keep an eye on.
Cayden Green, OL - Ranked No. 83
Green made a position switch this season, sliding from left guard to left tackle - and he handled it like a pro. According to Pro Football Focus, he was the second-best pass-blocking tackle in the SEC this year, which says a lot about his footwork and ability to anchor against top-tier edge rushers.
Still, NFL teams may see his future back on the interior. His versatility is a plus, and his tape shows a lineman with the tools to succeed in multiple spots. If he declares, he’s got a real shot to climb into Day 2 territory.
Chris McClellan, DT - Ranked No. 85
McClellan’s senior season was his breakout moment. The defensive tackle was a disruptive force on the interior, racking up 21 quarterback pressures and two sacks. That earned him an invite to the Senior Bowl - a key proving ground for draft hopefuls.
He finished as PFF’s second-highest graded pass-rushing defensive tackle in the SEC. In a deep class for interior linemen, McClellan is holding his own and gaining momentum.
Kevin Coleman Jr., WR - Ranked No. 110
Coleman became Mizzou’s go-to receiver this season, especially after stepping into the slot role vacated by Luther Burden III. Despite the Tigers’ midseason struggles through the air, Coleman was a steady presence, hauling in 63 catches for 715 yards and a touchdown.
He transferred in from Mississippi State and quickly built chemistry with the offense. Coleman may not have eye-popping numbers, but his route running, hands, and ability to find soft spots in coverage make him a reliable target - and an intriguing mid-round option.
Zion Young, DE - Ranked No. 115
Young’s ranking here might raise some eyebrows. Based on production alone, he’s been one of the SEC’s most effective pass rushers, generating 48 pressures and eight sacks. That kind of disruption usually puts you in the first- or second-round conversation - and that’s where many mock drafts have him.
However, a recent arrest on suspicion of driving while impaired could impact how teams view him during the pre-draft process. The talent is undeniable. If he can answer character questions during interviews and workouts, he could still be among the top edge rushers taken.
Keagen Trost, OL - Ranked No. 141
Trost has been one of the biggest surprises on Mizzou’s roster. A seventh-year senior who transferred from Wake Forest, he stepped into a massive role - replacing Armand Membou, who went No. 7 overall in last year’s draft - and delivered.
Trost earned third-team All-American honors from the AP and was PFF’s highest-graded offensive lineman in the SEC this season. That kind of performance doesn’t go unnoticed. He’s worked his way onto draft boards and could be a late-round steal for a team looking for a battle-tested tackle.
Who Else Could Hear Their Name Called?
One notable name missing from Renner’s top 150 is Damon Wilson II, a junior edge rusher who transferred from Georgia. Wilson was a force this season, tallying 49 quarterback pressures - second-most in the SEC.
If he declares, he’s widely projected as a Day 1 or Day 2 pick. His blend of speed, power, and bend off the edge makes him a nightmare for opposing tackles.
Beyond Wilson, there are a few Tigers flying under the radar who could make noise with strong pre-draft performances:
- Jalen Catalon and Daylan Carnell, both safeties with range and physicality.
- Connor Tollison, a steady presence at center.
- Toriano Pride Jr., a cornerback with upside who could turn heads at the combine.
What’s Next
With the Gator Bowl up next and draft declarations looming, Missouri is entering a pivotal stretch. The Tigers have built a roster that’s not only competitive in the SEC but now gaining serious traction at the next level.
If a few more players decide to take the leap - and perform well in the pre-draft process - Missouri could rewrite its draft history come April. One thing’s for sure: NFL scouts are watching Columbia closely.