Texas high school football usually produces multiple first-round picks every year, often three or more players hearing their names called on opening night. This year, the total was lower, but the talent level remained strong. Former Allen standout Jordyn Tyson and former Denison star Jadarian Price became the two Texas products selected in round one of the 2026 NFL Draft, extending Texas’ streak to 18 straight years with at least two first-round picks dating back to 2009.
Jordyn Tyson
Jordyn Tyson went first, selected No. 8 overall by the New Orleans Saints. Tyson developed into one of the nation’s most dangerous receivers during his college career at Colorado and Arizona State. The former Allen playmaker brought size, explosiveness, and big-game ability to every level he reached.
At Allen, Tyson showed why national programs wanted him early. He could stretch the field, win contested catches, and create yards after the catch. Those same traits followed him to college, where he sharpened his route running and became a complete receiver. As a senior, Tyson posted 80 receptions for 1,512 yards and 12 touchdowns at Allen, then later earned All-Big 12 honors twice in college.
During the 2025 season at Arizona State, Tyson recorded 61 catches for 711 yards and eight touchdowns despite playing only nine games. His blend of size at 6-foot-2 and polished ball skills made him one of the safest receiver picks in the draft. Now he heads to New Orleans carrying top-10 expectations and the chance to become an early impact target.
Jadarian Price
Jadarian Price closed out the first round when the Seattle Seahawks selected him No. 32 overall. The former Denison standout took a different road, battling back from an Achilles injury before becoming a productive running back and elite kick returner at Notre Dame.
Price built his draft stock through toughness, patience, and explosive speed. He became a weapon both in the backfield and special teams, showing NFL-ready versatility. For Denison, seeing Price reach round one is another proud football moment.
Over his final two college seasons, Price rushed for 1,420 yards and 18 touchdowns while averaging more than six yards per carry. In 2025 alone, he scored 15 total touchdowns, including rushing, receiving, and kickoff return scores. He also became a first-team All-American return specialist after three career kickoff returns for touchdowns.
At the NFL Combine, Price ran a 4.49 forty-yard dash and showed the burst that made him dangerous every time he touched the ball. Seattle gets a back with toughness, speed, and game-breaking value in multiple phases.
More Texas Talent Comes Off the Board
Texas talent kept showing up after round one. Anthony Hill Jr. went No. 60 to Tennessee, bringing elite linebacker upside. Kade Klubnik landed with the Jets at No. 110. Malik Muhammad was selected by Chicago at No. 124, while Trey Moore went No. 130 to Miami. The Dolphins also added Michael Taaffe at No. 158 and DJ Campbell at No. 200. Several more former Texas high school players are expected to be selected in the late rounds.
